BRIEF HISTORY OF THE ASEAN FOOD CONFERENCE

The ASEAN Food Conference (AFC), inaugurated in Singapore in 1982, has evolved into a significant joint activity coordinated by the ASEAN Committee on Science and Technology (ASEAN COST) and the Federation of Food Science and Technology Institutes in ASEAN (FIFSTA). Since its inception, the conference has rotated among ASEAN countries with recognized associations of Food Science and Technologists, official members of FIFSTA. Following its debut in Singapore, the AFC has been hosted by the Philippines (1985), Thailand (1988), Indonesia (1992), Malaysia (1994), Singapore (1997), the Philippines (2000), Vietnam (2003), Indonesia (2005), Malaysia (2007), Brunei (2009), Thailand (2011), Singapore (2013), the Philippines (2015), Vietnam (2017) and Indonesia (2019). The conference was initially planned for 2021 in Malaysia but was postponed to 2023 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The next conference is scheduled for 2025 in the Philippines. The event occurs biennially or triennially, guided by the Sub Committee on Food Science and Technology (ASCFST) within ASEAN COST, which consists of the National Focal Points from the 10 ASEAN members.

The AFC discusses the impacts of advancements in food science and technology on food security, environmental sustainability, health, and nutrition, and promotes the harmonization of food standards and regulations. Networking and communication among stakeholders are also key components.

Highlighted activities at the conference include the ASEAN Best Graduate Paper Competition (Oratory), the ASEAN Best Product Display, and the ASEAN Food Quiz Bowl for undergraduate Food Technology students, all intended to promote innovation and recognize excellence.