🧠 Blending Nature with Nutrition
In an inspiring academic initiative, the Department of Applied Medical Sciences at Quantum University organized a field-based educational visit to the Forest Research Institute (FRI), Dehradun, on May 3, 2025. The visit offered students of B.Sc. and M.Sc. Nutrition & Dietetics a rare opportunity to understand the powerful synergy between forest biodiversity and human nutrition.
This meticulously curated excursion reflected the department’s commitment to experiential learning by connecting theoretical classroom knowledge with real-world applications in environmental science, medicinal botany, and dietetics.
🏛️ Exploring the Legacy of FRI
The day began with a warm welcome and introductory session by FRI officials, who shared the institute’s rich history, key research breakthroughs, and its crucial role under the Indian Council of Forestry Research and Education (ICFRE). Students were introduced to the institute’s mission of promoting sustainable forestry and its impact on ecological and nutritional well-being.
🌿 Key Highlights of the Visit
🌼 1. Guided Botanical Walk
Students were led on a botanical tour through FRI’s lush green gardens, where they observed a diverse range of medicinal and edible plants. Experts detailed the phytochemical properties, nutritional significance, and traditional uses of these plants—offering new insights into how forest ecosystems contribute to both preventive and therapeutic health practices.
🏛️ 2. In-Depth Museum Explorations
The visit included guided tours of several specialized FRI museums:
- Museum of Non-Wood Forest Products: Students discovered how resources like natural gums, resins, essential oils, and spices contribute to nutritional therapy and food science.
- Entomology Museum: They learned about the ecological role of insects in pollination, natural pest control, and how these processes support agricultural productivity and food security.
- Silviculture and Timber Museums: Showcased the relationship between forestry practices, sustainable resource use, and their long-term effects on community nutrition and health.
💬 3. Interactive Knowledge Sessions
The highlight of the visit was the interactive discussions with FRI scientists, where students explored:
- The role of functional foods and nutraceuticals derived from forest resources
- How forest ecosystems ensure nutrient diversity
- Climate-resilient plants as sustainable solutions to malnutrition and food scarcity
🌍 Connecting Environment and Health
The visit provided students with a holistic perspective on environmental nutrition, emphasizing how forest conservation directly impacts dietary diversity, food systems, and community health. Students realized that ecological awareness is essential in shaping future nutrition practices and public health policies.
“The FRI visit helped me see nutrition beyond textbooks—it connected our food, health, and nature in a truly eye-opening way.” — M.Sc. Nutrition Student
🎓 Academic Enrichment and Acknowledgment
This immersive learning experience broadened the academic horizons of participating students by merging the disciplines of nutrition, ecology, botany, and sustainability science. It underscored the importance of environmental stewardship in achieving nutritional security and wellness in future generations.
The Department of Applied Medical Sciences extends its sincere gratitude to the FRI Dehradun authorities for their support and warm hospitality. Special appreciation goes to the faculty coordinators for their thoughtful planning and successful execution of this impactful academic initiative.
