University-Industry Research Cooperation Societally Applied Scientific Linkage and Collaboration
R075 Committee on AI-based strategy of "food and medicine are isogenic"
In order to create a sustainable healthy society, we aim to develop a strategy in which “food and medicine are isogenic (Ishoku-Dogen : 医食同源)” based on ① pre-disease biomarkers, ② the synergistic effects among nutrition, sensory/palatability and health-functionality, ③ mental and physical well-being, ④ transformative data science and AI, ⑤ innovative visualization technologies, and ⑥ personalized health information.
In pursuit of a sustainable healthy society, we aim to build a “food and medicine are isogenic” strategy based on ① pre-disease markers, ② the synergistic effects of nutrition, sensory/palatability and health functionality, ③ mental and physical wellbeing, ④ transformative data science and AI, ⑤ innovative visualization technologies, and ⑥ personalized health information. Our activities meticulously evaluate these foundational pillars from the perspective of food, leveraging the innovative potential of AI to seamlessly integrate academic research with industrial applications. This pioneering approach underscores our commitment to positioning food as a proactive means for sustaining health and vitality and to promoting a circular, health-oriented society.
Specifically, through regular research meetings, specialized working groups, information-exchange forums, public symposia, presentations at domestic and international academic conferences, and educational workshops, we aim to elevate the traditional Japanese concept of “food and medicine are isogenic” to a state-of-the-art strategy in an AI-driven society. By harnessing AI to transform dietary practices, we will support each individual in actively contributing to the realization of a healthy and sustainable society. Through these activities, we intend to generate the following four outcomes.
(1) We will promote academic research that spans the six foundational technologies and generate new insights and value aimed at enhancing the three basic functions of foods—primary function (nutrition), secondary function (palatability), and tertiary function (physiological regulation). By doing so, we aim to drive global innovation in food science and pioneer a new frontier that significantly enhances human health and the richness of dietary habits.
(2) By leveraging the six foundational technologies and AI, we will transform the traditional concept of “food and medicine are isogenic” into a forward-looking strategic framework. This approach will provide clear scientific evidence underpinning the value of food, ensure alignment with international standards, and position Japan as a global leader in evidence-based dietary practices.
(3) We will stimulate increased industry investment in research and development grounded in scientific evidence, thereby enabling pioneering innovations and the creation of unique, globally competitive food products.
(4) We will contribute to extending healthy life expectancy, effectively reduce medical expenses and eldercare costs, and promote corporate initiatives that prioritize employee health and welfare.
Specifically, through regular research meetings, specialized working groups, information-exchange forums, public symposia, presentations at domestic and international academic conferences, and educational workshops, we aim to elevate the traditional Japanese concept of “food and medicine are isogenic” to a state-of-the-art strategy in an AI-driven society. By harnessing AI to transform dietary practices, we will support each individual in actively contributing to the realization of a healthy and sustainable society. Through these activities, we intend to generate the following four outcomes.
(1) We will promote academic research that spans the six foundational technologies and generate new insights and value aimed at enhancing the three basic functions of foods—primary function (nutrition), secondary function (palatability), and tertiary function (physiological regulation). By doing so, we aim to drive global innovation in food science and pioneer a new frontier that significantly enhances human health and the richness of dietary habits.
(2) By leveraging the six foundational technologies and AI, we will transform the traditional concept of “food and medicine are isogenic” into a forward-looking strategic framework. This approach will provide clear scientific evidence underpinning the value of food, ensure alignment with international standards, and position Japan as a global leader in evidence-based dietary practices.
(3) We will stimulate increased industry investment in research and development grounded in scientific evidence, thereby enabling pioneering innovations and the creation of unique, globally competitive food products.
(4) We will contribute to extending healthy life expectancy, effectively reduce medical expenses and eldercare costs, and promote corporate initiatives that prioritize employee health and welfare.
Abe Keiko
Professor Emeritus,
The University of Tokyo
Professor Emeritus,
The University of Tokyo
April 2025 to March 2030
Academia:40
Industry: 64
Total membership: 104
Industry: 64
Total membership: 104