Food & Nutrition Students Meet Dr Chris van Tulleken

A small group of our Food & Nutrition students enjoyed an inspiring visit to the Royal College of Physicians this week, where they heard from Dr Chris van Tulleken, professor of infection and global health at UCL and well known from the BAFTA-winning Operation Ouch!.

From the outset, the students were fully immersed as Dr van Tulleken traced the evolution of what and how we eat, our students followed closely, linking his ideas on digestion, energy release and mitochondria to their own classroom learning. They noted how clearly he explained complex concepts, transforming them into an engaging story that kept the whole hall listening.

The section on additives and ultra-processed foods particularly resonated with them. Using the NOVA classification system, Dr van Tulleken encouraged students to examine their own food choices and to question whether products genuinely support health or are designed mainly for profit. Many found this both challenging and eye-opening.

During the lively Q&A, our students asked thoughtful questions about food policy, the influence of social media on eating habits and the balance of responsibility between governments and corporations. Dr van Tulleken praised their curiosity and depth of understanding, and several students stayed behind afterwards to continue the discussion and take photos.

They left the Royal College of Physicians buzzing with ideas and eager to bring their new insights back into their studies - a memorable and enriching experience for all involved.