FFC 32 Satellite Conference and Expo

Registration form         Abstract sample          Scholarship application

Years of research has demonstrated the efficacy of the diet rich in functional foods with bioactive compounds in reducing the risk of developing chronic disease. Decreasing the risk of chronic disease can also reduce the risk of viral disease, as those with chronic disease are more vulnerable to contracting and perishing from viral diseases. Considering the impact of the diet on both chronic and viral disease, having a greater understanding the bioactive compounds that produce the beneficial effects of the diet with functional foods can lead to improved health of the global population and decrease vulnerability to disease. Once identified, these bioactive compounds can be used in the development of functional foods for certain conditions, diseases, and their symptoms. 

To facilitate and promote the discussion of how the functional foods and bioactive compounds can be used to reduce the risks of disease, the central theme for the Functional Food Center’s 32^nd International Conference and the FFC32 Satellite Conference and Expo will be "Discovery, Research and Utilization of Bioactive Compounds: Development of Healthy and Functional Food Products". 

The conference is organized by Functional Food Center-FFC (Dallas, TX, USA), The Armenian National Agrarian University (Yerevan, Armenia), Functional Food Institute-FFI (San Diego, CA, USA), International Academic Society for Functional Foods and Bioactive Compounds (ASFFBC), The Journal of "Functional Foods in Health and Disease" (FFHD), The Journal of "Bioactive Compounds in Health and Disease" (BCHD) and The Journal of Functional Food Science (FFS). 

The Conference will also examine all aspects of SARS CoV-2 infection prevention and management, including non-pharmaceutical interventions.

FFC32 Satellite Conference and EXPO - In-Person, as well as a Virtual Experience (LIVE Online Event): September 10th - September 11 (Yerevan, Armenia). For more than 25 years, the Functional Food Center has provided the functional and healthy food industry with outstanding education, training, exhibits and networking opportunities to a worldwide community of researchers, food scientists, and academics. 

For more details about conference sessions and topics, please visit conference Topics and Sessions page.

For a view of the floor plan of the conference, visit the Satellite Floor Plan page.

Check out this link to view an Informational Brochure about the upcoming satellite conference.

Click the link to watch a  YouTube video about a previous FFC conference!

For travel information, follow this link: Travel Information

Call for Abstracts
Share your research with a global audience through the FFC 32nd International Conference! The deadline for the abstract submission deadline has been extended due to multiple requests from the publishers. The absolute last day to submit abstracts for our 32nd Conference is July 31st, 2024: Abstract publication fee is $50.00. The entire abstract should have a maximum of 750 words (including extra information about authors). Please use Times New Roman Font 12 for the entire abstract. 

Submit your abstract to be considered for an opportunity to showcase your work along with other leaders from the fields of medicine and food science during this event in a short or regular presentation. You will also have the opportunity to answer audience questions in real-time.

Short Presentations: 7 minutes

Regular Presentations: 20 Minutes

Special and Keynote Presentations: 25-30 Minutes

Decisions on selection will be promptly communicated to the authors via e-mail. All contributions will be reviewed by organizing committee members, and accepted abstracts will be published in the conference proceedings book. Please email your abstract as an attachment to ffc@functionalfoodscenter.net. Please review our sample abstract. It is mandatory to make a payment within 7-10 days after you receive an abstract acceptance letter.

What is a Satellite Event?

A satellite event is a unique concept where a single event occurs simultaneously across multiple locations, both physically and online. For instance, if you are planning a global product launch, each continent could host its own satellite event. This concept is scalable, applying to local, state, federal, and even smaller levels. By integrating multiple venues into a cohesive, well-coordinated event, you create an experience where both virtual and in-person attendees feel they are part of something exceptional. This approach is equally effective for multinational or global companies looking to host internal conferences.

How does a Satellite Event differ from any other event format?

You might be wondering, "What differentiates a hybrid event from a satellite event?" While there is some overlap, the distinction lies in the execution. A satellite event takes place at multiple physical locations simultaneously. For example, a hybrid trade conference in New York becomes a satellite trade conference when it also has a host venue in London. Essentially, a satellite event is an expansion of the hybrid concept, emphasizing the presence of multiple actual locations.

Benefits of a satellite events:

- Less Travelling
- Increased Attendees
- Improved Attendee Experience and Engagement
- Stepping Stone for a Larger Audience and Increased Impact

Why hold a Satellite Event?

Last year, we held our 31st International Conference in Yerevan, Armenia and had an amazing turnout, hosting over 5000 people(In-Person and Virtual Attendees) enthusiastic to share their knowledge and learn about Functional Foods and their impact to the world. We had many representatives from European countries such as Georgia, Greece, Poland, and Russia that were eager to participate. This year we initially chose to hold our conference in San Diego, California along with a virtual session for guests who are unable to commute, however, we realized that a virtual session does not do justice to the experience and engagement of the conference. We want as many people as possible to have the opportunity to present their work in-person and connect face-to-face with peers and mentors about their work and studies, so therefore we will be returning to Yerevan for our first ever Satellite Conference: The FFC32 Satellite Conference and Expo. 

Here are some highlights from our 31st International Conference in Yerevan, Armenia:

  Group Picture taken at FFC Conference 31 -- All attendees not pictured

About our Previous Conference

Years of research has demonstrated the efficacy of the diet rich in functional foods with bioactive compounds in reducing the risk of developing chronic disease. Decreasing the risk of chronic disease can also reduce the risk of viral disease, as those with chronic disease are more vulnerable to contracting and perishing from viral diseases. Considering how the diet affects both infectious and chronic diseases, a better knowledge of the bioactive substances that provide the diet its positive effects through functional foods might promote global health and reduce susceptibility to disease. These bioactive substances can be employed to create functional foods for certain illnesses and ailments after they have been identified. 

To facilitate and promote the discussion of how the functional foods and bioactive compounds can be used to reduce the risks of disease, the central theme for the Functional Food Center’s 31st International Conference's topic was "Functional Foods and Bioactive Compounds: Modern and Medieval Approaches." This conference brought together experts in medicine, biology, and the food industry to discuss the usage of functional foods with bioactive compounds as dietary interventions for chronic and viral diseases, such as COVID-19.

The Conference was incredible successful, hosting representatives from over 125 countries and encompassing topics such as Traditional Healthy Food and Medicine in Armenia, Bioactive Compounds for the Management of Chronic and Viral Diseases, Functional Food and Health: A Paradigm Shift in Agriculture, and others, along with an Awards and Certifications section to highlight those who have went the extra mile in their research and advocacy in the field of Functional Foods and Agricultural innovation.

Meeting with Armenian Officials

On September 7th, 2023, a pivotal meeting convened with key stakeholders including Ashkhen Shirvanyan, Deputy Minister in the Ministry of Economy of Armenia, Danik Martirosyan, PhD, representing the Functional Food Center (USA), Meruzhan Zadayan, PhD, and other esteemed participants. The focus of this gathering was the Functional Food Centers/Functional Food Institute’s 31st International Conference and EXPO, slated to take place in Yerevan, Armenia from September 29th to October 1st, 2023.

Insights and Discussions:
Dr. Martirosyan delivered an insightful discourse detailing the Functional Food Center's track record of organizing 30 international conferences across esteemed universities globally. He emphasized the necessity for functional food products to be rooted in scientific research, validated by animal and human trials, epidemiological investigations, and post-market studies. Open access publication of research findings was underscored as imperative to democratizing access to crucial information.

Success Stories and Collaborative Opportunities:
Dr. Martirosyan highlighted success stories from the Functional Food Center, including the establishment of esteemed scientific journals indexed in Scopus and Web of Science. The potential for collaboration between academia, government, and food manufacturers to yield tangible benefits for both the populace and economy was underscored.

Sustainable Collaboration:
Deliberations also centered on the practical commencement and sustenance of collaboration beyond the conference. Establishing detailed plans for collaborative endeavors and gradual progress towards ideal functional food formulations were identified as key steps.

Conclusion:
The Functional Food Center emerged as a pivotal institution for education and theoretical frameworks in functional food creation and evaluation. Deputy Minister Shirvanyan’s emphasis on practical aspects further underlined the necessity for concrete action and collaborative synergy to realize the potential of functional foods in enhancing public health and economic prosperity.

Registration Fees and Deadlines

The registration fee will cover the Conference Proceedings book (Abstract book) and a 12-month membership to the Academic Society for Functional Foods and Bioactive Compounds. It will provide access to all sessions as  well as free lunches and coffee. Each registration allows the registrant to present up to 3 accepted abstracts maximum. Registration includes access to the entire program and Expo, presentation materials, and networking with expert speakers and organizing committee members.

Cancellation Policy: Before February 28, 2024: 75% refund; before April 30th, 2024: 50% refund; after April 30th, 2024: No refund. Reimbursements will be sent after the conference. Notice of cancellation of registration must be received in writing to the Conference Secretariat. All refunds will be provided after the conference within 14 days.

Conference registration fees are in USD . 

*M: Members of Academic Society for Functional Foods and Bioactive Compounds; **N: Nonmembers(N); ***If an exhibitor wants a larger space, they can rent bigger space; **** Local organizations;
A. Conference is offering a 25% reduced registration fee to residents of UN list of least developed countries (https://unctad.org/topic/least-developed-countries/list); B. 50% discount for virtual participation for Regular Registration Rate. For local

Venue and Accommodations:

Our venue will be located at Armenian National Agrarian University, Yerevan, Armenia.

Address: Republic of Armenia, Yerevan, Teryan 74

The Armenian National Agrarian University is the foremost university in the field of agri-food system in Armenia. The University has achieved great success in science and education, and a large number of its alumni are well-known for their contribution to the agricultural field. Enhancing instruction and carrying out current scientific and research projects in a thorough and precise manner are the top priorities for university administration. One of the most well-liked and prestigious universities in the nation, the University has established a reputation for excellence through its many years of success and traditions.

Click here to learn more information about the Armenian National Agrarian University.

Tourist Attractions

If you are looking to tour Yerevan during your stay, here's a list of destinations worth exploring in Yerevan, Armenia. From its Historical Museums to Art showcases, Yerevan will leave tourists in awe of its deep culture and heritage.

• Cascade Complex (15 minutes walking distance to Armenian National Agrarian University). The many sculptures in Cascade Complex, also called the Cafesjian Center for the Arts, highlight Armenia's rich historical and cultural legacy. It is among the most significant locations in Armenia to visit. Click this link to view the Cascade Complex's breathtaking beauty.                                                                                                                                                                                               

• History Museum of Armenia (25 minutes walking distance to Armenian National Agrarian University). The Republic of Armenia's first museum was founded in 1919 and is called the History Museum of Armenia. It is a center for studying Armenian history and culture and collects rare ethnological and archeological artifacts. To view the historical museum, click the following link.                                                                                                                                                                                                   

• Republic Square (3 minutes walking distance to Armenian National Agrarian University). Republic Square, which lies in the center of Yerevan, Armenia, is one of the country's architectural highlights. Every building that encircles Republic Square features distinctive architectural design. Click this link to see what it's like to visit the Square.

Information about Hotels and Housing will be coming soon!

Scientific and Organizing Committee Members

-- Gayane Avagyan, PhD, Scientific Secretary of ANAU, Associate Professor of the Department of Horticulture and Plant Protection, Yerevan, Armenia

-- Meruzhan Zadayan, PhD, Agro-Food Business, One Health Initiative, Yerevan, Armenia 

-- Gayane Martirosyan, PhD, Head of Department of Seed Production and Primary Products Processing, Scientific Center of Vegetable and Industrial Crops, Darakert, Ararat Marz, Armenia

-- Gayane Melyan, PhD, Managing Director, Scientific Center of Agrobiotechnology, Armenian National Agrarian University, Yerevan Armenia

-- Mkrtich Avagyan, MD, Head, Center of Rehabilitation, Preventive and Traditional Medicine "AltMed", Yerevan, Armenia 

-- Gagik Santrosyan, PhD, Professor, Fruit growing and Physiology Department, Voskehat Educational and Research Center of Enology, ANAU Foundation Branch, Yerevan, Armenia

-- Ruzanna Sadoyan, PhD, Director, Scientific Center of Agriculture,  Ministry of Economy of Armenia, Vagharshapat, Armenia

-- Danik Martirosyan, PhD, Functional Food Center, Dallas, TX USA; Functional Food Institute, San Diego, CA, USA

Deadlines: 

• The deadline for the abstract submission has been extended due to multiple requests from the researchers. The absolute last day to submit abstracts for the Satellite Conference is July 31st, 2024: Late abstract publication fee is $99.00. Please review our sample abstract for formatting ideas.
• Full-text papers (full review or research articles) for oral presentations or posters will receive 75% discount for the article publication fee. Please note that the submission of full text papers are mandatory for oral presenters. Please review the author guidlenes before submitting your article. We will chose your article for publication in the following 3 open-access, peer-reviewed journals in accordance to your article content and other parameters: 1. The Journal of "Functional Foods in Health and Disease" (FFHD), is indexed in Scopus and Web of Science. 2. The Journal of "Bioactive Compounds in Health and Disease" (BCHD) is indexed in Scopus. 3. The Journal of Functional Food Science (FFS) will be submitted for Scopus indexing. Full-text paper submission deadline is July 31st, 2024.
• Power Points for oral presentations should be submitted before September 1st, 2024. 

Please note that the program and sessions are subject to change. For more information about the conference, please contact us by e-mail at ffc@functionalfoodscenter.net.