The National Nutrition Centre in Barbados hosts an annual National Nutrition Conference to address rising non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and obesity, often focusing on policy, school nutrition, and healthier lifestyles. The 2025 conference (3rd edition) emphasized food security, youth engagement, and research, coinciding with national efforts to improve dietary habits and combat rising costs of living.
This year, the conference seeks to highlight links between culture and health while exploring opportunities and threats to foods security under the theme: 'Fuelling Wellness, Preserving Culture'
The National Nutrition Centre encourages Barbadians to grow and consume a wide variety of traditional foods, prepared in ways that preserve their natural nutritional value and combined to ensure balanced, nutrient-rich meals. Many dishes prepared by our fore-parents remain highly relevant today for promoting good health and providing affordable nutrition. Equally important is the role physical activity once played in daily life. While we welcome modern advancements, we must preserve the health-promoting elements of our culture by maintaining active lifestyles. As we observe this period of heightened focus on nutrition, we are reminded of the value of our traditional foods and the enduring importance of physical activity in supporting the health and wellbeing of all Barbadians.
This year's keynote presentation is being delivered by our Chief Fisheries Officer, Dr. Shelly-Ann Cox under the caption 'Fuelling Wellness, Preserving Culture: Transforming the Post-harvest sector of the Fishing Industry in Barbados.'
