Iodine uncovered: tackling the hidden deficiency in health and food systems

Synopsis

Iodine deficiency is prevalent in Europe and, according to the World Health Organization remains the world’s “greatest single cause of preventable brain damage”. Iodine deficiency during brain development has been associated with poor school performance and reduced intellectual capacity. In the UK, deficiency predominantly affects women from adolescence onwards. Join us for a one-day event exploring the significance of iodine in the human diet, the limitations and benefits of food sources such as milk, dairy, fish, and salt, and the strategies available to combat deficiency at both national and global levels. We will examine interventions ranging from biofortification and food processing to policy development and industry engagement. Hear from experts across health, agriculture, and food systems, and gain a clearer understanding of iodine’s importance and the opportunities for supporting healthier, iodine-sufficient populations through research, policy, and practice.

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Attendees

This event is open to anyone interested in tackling iodine deficiency and its effects on health. It will be particularly useful for healthcare professionals, nutritionists and public health workers who want to understand more about iodine and its role in development and well-being. Researchers and academics in areas such as nutrition, agriculture and food science will find up-to-date information on biofortification, food sources and iodine intake. Farmers, food producers and food technologists may be interested in the practical ways to improve iodine content through agriculture and food processing. Policymakers, campaign groups and people involved in public health planning will hear evidence that can support decision making and intervention design. The focus of the event is on national and system-wide approaches, though some talks will also touch on how individuals can think about iodine in their diets.

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Programme

Tuesday 2 December 2025

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Exhibition and sponsorship

Please see the sponsorship pack and email conferences@soci.org to let us know which package you are interested in.

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Call for Posters

Contributions are invited from early-stage researchers and PhD students working in the fields of public health, nutrition, food science, agricultural production and related areas that are associated with iodine supply in the food chain and can address iodine deficiency. Abstracts should showcase and enhance the understanding of the role of iodine on human health and in a balanced diet with innovative approaches to preventing iodine deficiency, including biofortification, fortification at food processing, nutritional interventions, consumer awareness programmes or policy interventions. The goal is to highlight research that not only advances scientific knowledge but also demonstrates the potential to be implemented by industry, policymakers and other stakeholders.

There will be voucher prizes of £100 (first place) and £50 (second place). The best posters will clearly communicate their research and its practical value. Abstracts (maximum 250 words, excluding names, affiliations, references or figure captions) should be sent to conferences@soci.org by Monday 17 November 2025, using the subject line “Iodine uncovered - poster submission”. Please download an SCI_Abstract_Template.

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Accessibility Grants

SCI accessibility grants are available to support SCI members with disabilities, long term health conditions, those who require a carer, and members who are nursing parents to attend SCI events. Download an application form to apply for a grant.

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Venue and Contact

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Fees

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Booking Process/Deadlines

Booking terms and conditions

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CPD Info

All delegates attending this meeting are able to claim CPD points.

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Organising committee

Sarah Bath, University of Surrey
Hamid Ghoddusi, London Metropolitan University
Maria Oruna-Concha, University of Reading
Peter Reineck, SCI
Sokratis Stergiadis, University of Reading

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