Why It Matters

Consider this; the average person breathes about 9,000 litres of air daily. Over a lifetime, that adds up to an astonishing 438 million litres. While the concentration of nutrients in the air is minuscule, the cumulative effect could significantly impact long-term health. Dr. Flávia Fayet-Moore, CEO of FOODiQ, underscores this potential: “Our lungs are incredibly efficient at absorbing large molecules. Vitamin B12, for example, is absorbed 52 times more effectively through inhalation than oral supplements.”

For the food industry, this raises compelling questions. Could we develop ways to enhance the nutritional quality of the air we breathe in urban spaces? Might this spark new consumer products or redefine dietary guidelines? The possibilities are vast.

This isn’t entirely new territory. Professor Stephen Robinson of RMIT University points out that humans have always relied on trace elements in the air. Before industrialisation, these nutrients were naturally present and our bodies adapted to absorb them efficiently. The concept of aeronutrients builds on this history, adding modern scientific validation.

The Surprising Potential of Clean Air for Wellbeing

The study also shines a light on aeromicrobes – airborne microbes that can benefit ecosystems and human health. The belief that air quality impacts your health dates back to Roman Scholars and is seen today in practices like forest bathing. What’s new, however, is the emerging evidence that these airborne elements could play a direct role in enhancing nutrition.

Most air-related research focuses on the negatives – pollution, toxins and health risks. This study flips the narrative, exploring the untapped potential of clean, nutrient-rich air. As Dr. Fayet-Moore notes, “This discovery could lead to groundbreaking changes in nutrition guidelines, complementing traditional dietary advice.” For the food industry, this opens doors to advancements in areas like public health initiatives, urban planning and food product development.

Looking Ahead

While the research is still in its early stages, its potential impact is hard to ignore. Could aeronutrients become a new tool in combating malnutrition? Could food professionals start considering air quality as a critical factor in nutrition strategies? The answers may shape the next decade of food and beverage innovation.

Want to explore more and other forward-thinking trends shaping the industry? Join us at Gulfood’s 30th edition from 17-21 February to discover what the next frontier in food holds. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this conversation. Register now at www.gulfood.com.

Meet the Minds Behind the Breakthrough

• Dr. Flávia Fayet-Moore: Known as “Dr. Flav,” she’s a thought leader in nutrition science, with over two decades of contributions to global public health. As CEO of FOODiQ, she’s at the forefront of translating complex research into actionable insights.
• Professor Stephen R. Robinson: A neuroscientist with a keen interest in diet’s impact on cognition, Professor Robinson brings decades of research expertise, including high-impact studies on Alzheimer’s and gut health.
• FOODiQ Global: This Australian-based leader in food and nutrition science is redefining how we understand the relationship between what we consume what we breathe and our health.

The full study, A Breath of Fresh Air: Perspectives on Inhaled Nutrients and Bacteria to Improve Human Health can be found in the December issue of academic journal Advances in Nutrition.