An Assessment of Rolla’s Food System and Nutrition Needs
Department
Civil, Architectural and Environmental Engineering
Major
Environmental Engineering
Research Advisor
Oerther, Daniel B.
Advisor's Department
Civil, Architectural and Environmental Engineering
Funding Source
John A. and Susan Mathes Endowed Chair in Environmental Engineering
Abstract
The field of environmental engineering creates systems to improve public health and safety, yet it often ignores topics such as nutrition and obesity. These topics can affect human health and quality of life as much as air or water pollution and treatment. This project has explored the links between food, nutrition, hunger, and obesity in many ways, beginning with two honors experiences- work with a Kenyan food program and a molecular biology analysis of microbes involved in obesity. It also includes a survey of food systems in India. These experiences have culminated in the creation of a Rolla “food policy council” and several community awareness events. Through this group and public feedback, key factors in the nutrition and obesity issue have been identified, and programs will be discussed and evaluated for their ability to create a solution. The top programs will be implemented and tested for real-world success.
Biography
Katelyn Denby is a senior in environmental engineering and has conducted independent research with Dr. Oerther for several years, including a trip to India in 2012. Katelyn is involved in the Honor’s Academy, is a teacher’s assistant for EnvE 261, the president of Eco Miners, and an officer in Chi Epsilon and Wesley. She is also an active member of Tau Beta Pi.
Research Category
Engineering
Presentation Type
Oral Presentation
Document Type
Presentation
Location
Gasconade Room
Presentation Date
16 Apr 2014, 9:30 am - 10:00 am
An Assessment of Rolla’s Food System and Nutrition Needs
Gasconade Room
The field of environmental engineering creates systems to improve public health and safety, yet it often ignores topics such as nutrition and obesity. These topics can affect human health and quality of life as much as air or water pollution and treatment. This project has explored the links between food, nutrition, hunger, and obesity in many ways, beginning with two honors experiences- work with a Kenyan food program and a molecular biology analysis of microbes involved in obesity. It also includes a survey of food systems in India. These experiences have culminated in the creation of a Rolla “food policy council” and several community awareness events. Through this group and public feedback, key factors in the nutrition and obesity issue have been identified, and programs will be discussed and evaluated for their ability to create a solution. The top programs will be implemented and tested for real-world success.
