Urselia Hernandez Lopez, Director of Science at the Institute of Research for the Food Industry (IIIA), explained during the presentation that the product is a syrup made from stabilized bovine blood, honey, and potassium sorbate, which meets the physical, chemical, microbiological, and sensory parameters for use by pregnant women.

  A single tablespoon of this product, called Hemolin, provides 2.8 milligrams (mg) of iron, which corresponds to 10 percent of the recommended daily intake for pregnant women, noted Hernandez, leader of the research group comprised of Margarita Nunez, Yisel Leon, Jose Luis Rodriguez, Ivania Rodriguez, Sheila Alejandra Palacio, and Silvia Falco.

  The SISIA 2025 symposium is dedicated to the centennial of the birth of the leader of the Cuban Revolution, Fidel Castro, next year, explained Jesus Rodriguez, director general of the IIIA and president of the organizing committee, at the opening ceremony.     This event, themed “Sustainable Food Innovation,” is organized by the IIIA, a leading institution in innovation and development for Cuba’s food industry.  Among its achievements are foods for the elderly and pregnant women, fruit and vegetable juices for children, reduced-sugar products, and other technical, educational, and scientific services.

  The opening day was attended by Oscar Treto, an official from the Central Committee of the Communist Party of Cuba; as well as directors from the Ministry of the Food Industry, scientific figures, and students.   The program for the event, which runs until Friday at Melia Habana Hotel, includes conferences, panels, poster sessions, and workshops on current developments and innovations in food production.

  Topics include food engineering and technology, food safety and quality, vulnerable population groups, new product development, and artificial intelligence for food science and technology.

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