The 5th International Conference on Agriculture, Food Security and Food Safety 2024 was successfully held on August 21- 22 in beautiful Colombo, Sri Lanka. The conference was organized by iConferences, Sri Lanka and Department of Agronomy and Horticulture, Faculty of Agriculture, Bogor Agricultural University (IPB), Indonesia, Department of Food Engineering, University of Agriculture Faisalabad Pakistan of Agriculture, Pakistan, Department of Studies in Food Science & Nutrition, University of Mysore, India the academic partners. The conference featured keynote speeches, panel discussions and oral/poster presentations on various topics related to Agriculture, Food Security and Food Safety. The conference also provided networking opportunities for the participants from different countries and disciplines.
A conference brought together researchers, policymakers, and practitioners to explore critical issues surrounding agriculture, food security, and food safety. The event featured keynote speakers, panel discussions, presentations, and workshops that addressed a wide array of topics including sustainable agricultural practices, global food distribution systems, nutritional science, food safety regulations, and the impacts of climate change on food production. Participants engaged in discussions on food economics, agricultural technology, public health nutrition, and the social determinants of food security. The conference underscored the interdisciplinary nature of these fields and their global significance, especially in regions experiencing severe food insecurity. Attendees from diverse countries such as the UAE, USA, Nigeria, Sri Lanka, India, China, Egypt, New Zealand, Singapore, Brazil, Zimbabwe, Australia, Malaysia, Italy, Iraq, Ethiopia, Pakistan, and the South Africa contributed valuable perspectives, fostering a collaborative environment for advancing solutions to the pressing challenges of ensuring a safe and reliable food supply.

Conference Programme

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Conference Brochure

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Conference Abstract book

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Conference Chair Speeches

Dr. Esther Garcia-Cela

Senior Lecturer in Apply Mycology
School of Life and Medical Sciences
University of Hertfordshire
United Kingdom

Keynote Speakers

Technical Sessions

Session 1 and 4  – Food Security and Food Processing

The session on “Food Security and Food Processing” presented a diverse array of research addressing critical aspects of global food systems. One study assessed the roles of climate change and human behavior in shaping food resilience, offering insights into how environmental and societal factors impact food security. Another presentation investigated the changing rates of antioxidant properties in fresh fruits during storage, revealing implications for preserving nutritional quality and extending shelf-life. A novel study introduced a confectionary product developed using selected locally available ingredients, highlighting innovative approaches to utilizing regional resources and enhancing food diversity. Additionally, research on the effect of ultrasound-assisted sample-to-solvent ratio of clove ethanolic extracts demonstrated improvements in antioxidant and antimicrobial properties, showcasing advancements in food processing technologies. These presentations collectively highlighted the ongoing efforts to address food security challenges through innovative research and practical solutions.

Session 2 – Exploration of Innovations for Shaping the Future of Healthcar

The session on “Climate Change and Agriculture Technology” highlighted a range of innovative studies aimed at addressing the intersection of environmental challenges and agricultural practices. One presentation explored enteric methane emissions in dairy cattle under various management and climatic conditions, offering insights into strategies for reducing greenhouse gas outputs in livestock. Another study focused on the role of Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) in driving performance within Sri Lanka’s plantation sector, underscoring the importance of metrics in improving agricultural efficiency. A systematic review of UAV-supported seed sowing and post-planting analysis for forest regeneration highlighted advancements in using drones for sustainable forest management. Additionally, research on a multi-frequency avian repellent device showcased new approaches to crop safety. A study on the effectiveness of nozzle types and spray operations in greenhouses examined how different equipment settings impact pesticide application. Finally, an investigation into land use conversion in South Africa using remote sensing provided valuable data on the extent of arable land changes. Collectively, these presentations emphasized the role of technology and innovative practices in enhancing agricultural resilience and sustainability in the face of climate change.

Session 3 – Nutritional Strategies

The session on “Nutritional Strategies” featured a variety of innovative research focused on enhancing dietary practices and nutritional health. One study investigated the physico-chemical and microbial dynamics of probiotic drinking yoghurt made from cow or camel milk, highlighting the potential for diverse dairy sources in probiotic development. Another presentation introduced a fermented coconut-based dessert as a viable alternative to traditional dairy yoghurts, aiming to offer more options for those with dietary restrictions. Research on the functional and nutritional properties of MUSA paradisiaca (ash plantain) flour examined its potential in creating ready-to-serve flakes, promoting the use of plant-based ingredients for nutritional enhancement. The suitability of composite flour as a functional food for dietary diversity among children with autism was also explored, emphasizing the importance of tailored dietary solutions. Additionally, an innovative protein-rich bread was presented, designed to improve nutritional function and market appeal. A pilot study on diet as a risk factor for asthma among children in Mysuru highlighted the influence of dietary choices on respiratory health, while principal component analysis of egg parameters in different chicken breeds provided insights into optimizing poultry nutrition. These presentations collectively underscored the role of nutritional strategies in advancing health and dietary diversity.

Session 5 – Plant And Crop Sciencesr

The session on “Plant and Crop Sciences” presented a range of research aimed at advancing agricultural practices and improving crop productivity. One study focused on optimizing feed quality for local and improved dual-purpose pearl millet straw through urea treatment in the West African Sahel, highlighting methods to enhance animal nutrition and feed efficiency. Another presentation examined nutrient loss from intensive red onion cultivation in the Kalpitiya Peninsula, offering insights into soil management and crop yield optimization. Research on soil conservation practices addressed their impact on upcountry vegetable productivity, exploring constraints and awareness levels among farmers. A study on the effect of natural polymers on soil water retention and plant growth demonstrated innovative approaches to improving soil health and supporting crop development. Additionally, the effect of integrated treatment using hot water dipping and jasmonic acid on anthracnose in the Kolikuttu banana cultivar was analyzed, revealing methods to combat fungal diseases and enhance banana production. These presentations collectively underscored the importance of innovative techniques and sustainable practices in advancing plant and crop sciences.

Session 6 – Sustainable Agriculture

The session on “Sustainable Agriculture” featured a range of innovative research aimed at promoting environmentally friendly and economically viable agricultural practices. One presentation introduced a blockchain-based framework designed to prevent saffron counterfeiting, enhancing transparency and trust in the spice supply chain. Another study evaluated the impact of food resource matching platforms through a case study of Efoood Social Innovation Co., Ltd., highlighting their role in improving food distribution and reducing waste. Research on the physicochemical and sensory properties of a natural carbohydrate-electrolyte drink explored its potential benefits for hydration and nutritional support in agriculture. Additionally, a study on bear conservation strategies linked to strategic fruit planting demonstrated how wildlife management can support agricultural sustainability. A further presentation investigated the use of parametric insurance based on plant phenology to stabilize farmers’ income, offering a financial tool to mitigate risks associated with agricultural volatility. Collectively, these presentations emphasized the integration of technology, conservation, and innovative practices in advancing sustainable agriculture.

Poster Session 1 – Advances in Sustainable Agricultural Practices

Poster Session on “Advances in Sustainable Agricultural Practices” highlighted a series of innovative studies aimed at improving agricultural sustainability and enhancing food security. One poster presented the contributions of integrated agro-industrial parks to agricultural transformation, focusing on their implications for smallholder farmers’ food security and food safety. Another research explored the effect of nitrogen fertilization on the quality of potato tubers, analyzing changes in composition, physico-chemical properties, and functional attributes. The interaction between plants and metal nanoparticles was examined, revealing its potential molecular mechanisms for sustainable agricultural applications. Additionally, a study on minimizing nitrogen leaching losses from sandy regosols discussed various fertilizer management techniques to improve soil and water quality. A further presentation introduced a tailored biofertilizer designed to support sustainable crop farming by enhancing soil health and crop productivity. These posters collectively showcased cutting-edge approaches and practices aimed at advancing sustainability in agriculture.

Award Ceremony

The Award ceremony was conducted in order to recognize the exceptional research presentations for each technical session.

Session 1 and 4  – Food Security and Food Processing

Chong, K.H.

“Effect of Ultrasound-Assisted Sample-to-solvent Ratio of Clove (Syzygium Aromaticum) Ethanolic Extracts on Antioxidant and Antimicrobial Properties”

Session 2 – Climate Change and Agriculture Technology

Fernando, S.N.S.

“The Role of Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) to Drive the Performance of Firms in the Plantation Sector in Sri Lanka”

Session 3 – Nutritional Strategies

 Bhaskaracharya, R.K.

“Physico-Chemical and Microbial Population Kinetics for Probiotic Drinking Yoghurt Made Using Cow Milk or Camel Milk”

Session 5 – Plant And Crop Sciences

Askri A.

“Study of the Effect of Natural Polymers on Soil Water Retention and Plant Growth”

Session 6 – Sustainable Agriculture

Ketakumbura, K.H.M.L.S.

“Investigation of Physicochemical and Sensory Properties of a Natural Carbohydrate-Electrolyte Drink”

Poster Session – Advances In Sustainable Agricultural Practices

Kaur N.

“Interaction of Plants and Metal Nanoparticles: Exploring Its Molecular Mechanisms for Sustainable Application”

Best Overall Presenters of AgroFood 2024

Perera, V.V.

 “Development of a Proteinous Bread with Enhanced Functional and Marketable Attributes”

Best Delegate Presenters of AgroFood 2024

Umutoni C.

 “Assessing the Roles of Climate Change and Human Behavior in Global Food Resilience”