BIO 30 Week 2019: Serving the Flavorful Concepts of Nutrigenomics

By: Agnes Gutierrez 

LOS BAÑOS, LAGUNA– From April 8-12 2019, The UPLB Genetics Society will host its annual BIO 30 Week at the Institute of Biological Sciences Building, University of the Philippines-Los Banos. With the theme, “Palatable Discourse: Savoring the Emerging Concepts on Nutritional Genetics”, BIO 30 Week 2019 will focus on the science of Nutritional Genetics and will aim to spread information about the relationship of nutrition to a person’s genes through creative and exciting activities.

About the Theme: Nutrigenomics

Nutritional genetics (nutrigenomics) is the field of science which seeks to understand and explain the interactions between genes and nutrients at the molecular level towards its effects on the gene expression (physical appearance) and health of an individual. Nutrigenomics would enable a better quality of customized diets according to an individual’s genetic make-up and possibly prevent future ailments especially the Non-transmissible Chronic Diseases (NTCDs) which are prevalent health threats in our society.

About the Exhibit: Fine Dining

For the exhibit for this year’s bio 30 week, the creative theme that will represent Nutrigenomics is Fine Dining. The exhibit is divided into 4 parts: trivia display, poles, board, and ceiling design.

The trivia display is the main feature of the exhibit as it contains the different facts and information about nutrigenomics. It is made up of chipboards and used cartons that are layered and adorned to resemble stained-glass windows. These will be placed between two poles. The poles are surrounded with corrugated boards sprinkled with gold glitters to create a classy atmosphere. The board contains the members, officers, and the activities of the organization. It mimics a bar complete with a mache of wine bottles and glasses, as well as wooden barrels and crates. Last is the ceiling which is adorned with four handmade chandeliers equipped with flickering LED lights.

All these are greatly detailed products of a month-long workshop done by the members of the organization in which their passion to live up to the objectives have always been tireless and unyielding.

The activities of Genetics Week are as follows:

Thanksgiving Mass. Before the start of the exhibit week, this sacred ceremony will be conducted to open the Bio 30 week.

BIO 30 Quiz Contest. Caters all Bio 30 students currently taking the said course to test their mental prowess and will challenge their minds to the utmost.

Theme-based Seminar. Focuses on one class to obtain a more immersive exposure to the theme of the exhibit by having an expert discuss Nutritional Genetics to the class during the session.

Print-All-You-Can. This event seeks to provide students free printing services. They can print their handouts, reports, and reviewers as much as they want within a specified time. This is the organization’s way to lend students a helping hand in preparation for their hell weeks.

Minor Orientation. This is the organization’s way to showcase their values, achievements, and activities to students who are interested to join the organization.

Open Tambayan. This is an avenue of GeneSoc to give back to the academic community for supporting the organization in their advocacies and activities by giving out free food and refreshments to students, teachers, and staff of the university.