Overview
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This specialization explores the intersection of nutrition science, public policy, and food regulations, equipping learners with the knowledge and tools to address real-world challenges in personalized nutrition and public health. Across six courses, learners will examine how genetic, epigenetic, and microbiome variations influence dietary responses, and how emerging technologies like AI and continuous glucose monitoring are transforming nutrition recommendations. The program includes insights from global experts through lectures and panel discussions, offering a rich understanding of the personalized nutrition ecosystem. Learners will also explore the foundations of U.S. nutrition policy, including food assistance programs like SNAP and WIC, and analyze how policies are developed, implemented, and evaluated. In addition, the specialization covers food labeling laws, safety regulations, and the role of government agencies in shaping the food system. Designed for professionals in healthcare, public health, and the food industry, this specialization can be stacked toward a graduate certificate or an online master’s degree through the College of ACES at the University of Illinois. Knowledge checks and applied learning activities throughout the courses ensure learners build practical, career-ready skills.
Syllabus
- Course 1: Understanding Food Regulations & Food Labeling
- Course 2: Navigating U.S. Food Regulations: Safety and Enforcement
- Course 3: Putting the Personal in Personalized Nutrition
- Course 4: Bridging Data and Practice for Personalized Nutrition
- Course 5: U.S. Nutrition Policies and Implications
- Course 6: Introduction to Nutrition Policy, Frameworks, and Process
Courses
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A “one size fits all” approach to nutrition may not work for everyone. We each have unique variations in our genome, epigenome and microbiome, which interact with our external environment to affect how our bodies respond to dietary intake. Learners will exam the basic principles of nutrition, explore the foundational aspects of personalized nutrition, and analyze the research about the roles of genetics and microbiomes in our personalized nutrition journey. This course is part of the College of ACES suite of online programs, including the graduate-level certificate, "Food Regulations, Nutrition Policy, and Personalized Nutrition" that can be stacked toward an online master's degree. To learn more about online programs from the College of ACES and explore ways to apply your Coursera work toward a degree program at the University of Illinois, visit ACES Online at acesonline.illinois.edu.
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Explore the ethical considerations and applications of AI in personalized nutrition with insights from global experts. Learn how big data and predictive algorithms can revolutionize dietary recommendations. The course covers innovative methods for collecting nutrition data, such as continuous glucose monitors, and provides insights into nutrition research study designs. Address consumer barriers to interpreting test results and examine various personalized nutrition products and services. The role of medical professionals, including doctors and registered dietitians, is highlighted. Finally, the course looks ahead to the future of personalized nutrition, discussing democratization, partnership creation, and the components of the personalized nutrition ecosystem. This comprehensive exploration will equip you with a deep understanding of how AI can enhance dietary recommendations and improve overall health outcomes. This course is part of the College of ACES suite of online programs. To learn more about online programs from the College of ACES and explore ways to apply your Coursera work toward a degree program at the University of Illinois, visit: https://aces.illinois.edu/online.
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Throughout this course, "Introduction to Nutrition Policy, Frameworks, and Process," learners will gain a comprehensive understanding of the essential components of U.S. nutrition policy. Over four modules, the course covers the foundations of the food system and food environment, nutrition policy formulation, and the policy evaluation process. Participants will explore frameworks that promote nutrition equity, including the social determinants of health and key policy initiatives such as the Healthy People Initiative and NOURISH. The course also delves into the nutrition policy process, from problem identification to policy implementation, and examines the evaluation and prioritization of nutrition policies. Through engaging video lectures, readings, and quizzes, this course equips learners with the knowledge and skills to effectively understand and influence U.S. nutrition policy. This course primarily aims at learners with a beginner-level understanding of U.S. nutrition policy. This course is part of the College of ACES suite of online programs, including the graduate-level certificate, "Food Regulations, Nutrition Policy, and Personalized Nutrition," that can be stacked toward a master's degree. To learn more about online programs from the College of ACES and explore ways to apply your Coursera work toward a degree program at the University of Illinois, visit ACES Online at acesonline.illinois.edu.
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This course, "U.S. Nutrition Policies and Implications," offers an exploration into federal food assistance programs and their impact on food security and public health nutrition. Over four modules, you'll delve into the scope and benefits of programs like WIC, SNAP, and CACFP, and understand the critical role of food pantries and emergency food assistance. You'll also examine the application of nutrition policies in educational and non-educational settings, including workplaces and healthcare environments. Led by Illinois instructors Dr. Saima Hasnin and Dr. Krystal Hodge, you'll embark on a journey through U.S. nutrition policy and implications, guided by expert guest lecturers from across the nation. By the end of the course, you'll be equipped to identify policy gaps, understand the challenges in U.S. nutrition policy, and explore the implications of nutrition policies on public health and well-being. This course is part of the College of ACES suite of online programs. To learn more about online programs from the College of ACES and explore ways to apply your Coursera work toward a degree program at the University of Illinois, visit: https://acesonline.illinois.edu.
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Immerse yourself in the exciting realm of food regulations and labeling with our comprehensive course, perfect for learners and professionals aiming to enhance their skills. Discover the fascinating history and critical importance of food regulations and learn how key government agencies shape the food industry. Uncover the secrets behind the Nutrition Labeling and Education Act (NLEA), master the art of identifying food allergens, and explore specialty labeling options that can set products apart in the market. This course goes beyond the basics, offering insights into making impactful nutrition claims and understanding the concept of GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe). You'll also delve into the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) and learn how it ensures the safety of our food supply. With expert-led videos, engaging discussions, and practical examples, you'll gain the skills and knowledge to navigate and influence the food regulatory landscape effectively. This course is part of the College of ACES suite of online programs, including the graduate certificate, "Food Regulations, Nutrition Policy, and Personalized Nutrition Certificate," that can be counted toward an advanced degree in the College of ACES. To learn more about online programs from the College of ACES and explore ways to apply your Coursera work toward a degree program at the University of Illinois, visit ACES Online @ aces.illinois.edu/online.
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In today’s global food system, understanding how food regulations shape what we eat, how it’s labeled, and how it’s imported is more important than ever. Navigating U.S. Food Regulations: Safety and Enforcement is a dynamic 4-week Coursera course that explores the complex landscape of U.S. food laws, enforcement mechanisms, and the role of advocacy in shaping policy. From the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) to the regulation of dietary supplements and infant formula, learners will gain a practical understanding of how food safety is maintained and how consumer protection is enforced. Led by instructor Dr. Jessica Hartke, you’ll explore how regulations evolve in response to public health needs and industry practices. This course features insights from a distinguished team of experts, including food law scholar Bryan Endres, nutrition scientist Deshanie Rai, regulatory strategist Karleigh Bacon, and food policy specialists Robbie Burns and Nate Matusheski. You’ll also hear from guest lecturers who are leaders in advocacy and policy, offering firsthand accounts of how regulations are influenced and enforced. Whether you're a student, professional, or curious consumer, this course will equip you with the tools to critically evaluate food regulations and their impact on public health and industry. This course is part of the College of ACES suite of online programs. To learn more about online programs from the College of ACES and explore ways to apply your Coursera work toward a degree program at the University of Illinois, visit: https://aces.illinois.edu/online.
Taught by
Jessica Hartke , Krystal Hodge, PhD, MPH, Saima Hasnin, PhD, MS and Sharon M. Donovan