TOX-30306 Food Toxicology

Course

Credits 6.00

Teaching methodContact hours
Lecture24
Tutorial20
Practical44
Course coordinator(s)prof. dr. ir. IMCM Rietjens
Lecturer(s)L de Haan
dr. ir. H Bouwmeester
prof. dr. ir. IMCM Rietjens

Language of instruction:

English

Assumed knowledge on:

TOX-20303 General Toxicology; CBI-20306 Cell Biology and Health or FHM-22806 Food Hazards.

Continuation courses:

Thesis Toxicology, Internship Toxicology.

Contents:

Lectures involve all aspects of food toxicology including topics such as natural toxins in animals and plants, additives, functional ingredients (functional foods), plant food supplements, nanotoxicology, cancer modulating substances, mycotoxins, drinking water, and different groups of contaminants such as pesticides, persistent organic pollutants (POP's), metals, and animal drug residues. In addition, the role of genetic polymorphisms, gender and lifestyle factors on the sensitivity of humans to toxic compounds, and biomarkers to assess these effects are included. In discussion groups a risk assessment is carried out for a food ingredient or contaminant. In the practical course in vitro experiments that are typical for food toxicological research are performed.

Learning outcomes:

After successful completion of this course students are expected to:
- know the most relevant terms and methods in food toxicological research;
- know the main sources and types of foodborne toxicants and the mechanisms and modes of action underlying the adverse effects of these compounds;
- understand the basic principles of the risk assessment of food ingredients and contaminants;
- be able to perform practical experiments in a comprehensive way;
- be able to analyse and critically discuss the results of practical experiments and report (written);
- be able to assess the human risks for a food ingredient or contaminant in a written and poster presentation.

Activities:

- lectures;
- working lectures;
- practicals.

Examination:

Written examination plus report.

ProgrammePhaseSpecializationPeriod
Compulsory for: MFSFood SafetyMScA: Applied Food Safety4WD
Restricted Optional for: MMLMolecular Life SciencesMScA: Biomedical Research4WD
MMLMolecular Life SciencesMScB: Biological Chemistry4WD
MNHNutrition and HealthMScB: Nutritional Physiology and Health Status4WD
MNHNutrition and HealthMScC: Molecular Nutrition and Toxicology4WD
MNHNutrition and HealthMScA: Epidemiology and Public Health4WD
MNHNutrition and HealthMScF: Food Digestion and Health4WD