Ana Rita Monforte
S&T Flavour & Data Program Manager,
AFB International
Ana Rita Monforte, Ph.D., is flavor and data sciences manager at AFB International and has been with the company for three years. She holds a doctorate in mechanisms for flavor formation and a deep understanding of data modeling. Monforte has presented at several scientific congresses regarding flavor formation in foods, with particular attention to linking palatability with chemical composition. At AFB, her focus has been on searching for new ingredients capable of increasing palatability as well as applying artificial intelligence modeling coupled with several analytical tools.
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Tue Apr 29 1:30 PM - 2:35 PM | Pet food nutrition sessions: Focus on senior pets KCCC 2104A-B - Bioavailability and effects of collagen hydrolysates using an in vivo to in vitro approach for canine osteoarthritis — Niels Blees, MSc., DVM, Ph.D. student, Utrecht University Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, presents results of a study researching the bioavailability of collagen hydrolysates (CH) in dogs, currently unknown, as potential nutritional support for canine osteoarthritis (OA). Available in vitro studies on the biological mechanisms during OA add the intact supplement rather than the digested and metabolized product, and may therefore lack biological relevance. In this study, Blees aimed to determine the bioavailability of CH provided in different dosages and to assess the effects of CH on pro-inflammatory stimulated synovial cells and chondrocytes by subjecting the cells to serum collected from dogs receiving the dietary supplement. This may be the first study in dogs combining bioavailability and the use of the in vivo to in vitro enriched serum model in the context of nutraceuticals; the model could improve translation of in vitro results to in vivo disease.
- Enhancing muscle health and longevity in aging canines with HMB supplementation — Shawn Baier, vice president of business development, TSI Group Co., proposes that as companion animals live longer, age-related muscle loss has become a critical focus for improving quality of life. HMB (β-Hydroxy β-Methylbutyrate) supplementation, widely recognized for its muscle-preserving benefits in humans, shows similar promise for aging dogs. Baier presents results of a study investigating HMB’s impact on muscle health, protein metabolism and overall vitality in senior canines. Early findings suggest that dogs receiving HMB retained muscle mass more effectively and demonstrated increased energy expenditure and voluntary activity, with improved outcomes in physical fitness assessments compared to non-supplemented dogs.
- Flavor preference in cats across life stages — Ana Rita Monforte, Ph.D., flavor and data manager, AFB International, shares findings from a study to investigate sensory perception changes that occur at different ages, assessing how these factors influence food preferences, focusing mainly on the aging cat. Her research highlights vital factors influencing flavor preference, including texture and aroma, which are particularly important for aging cats with diminished senses. This research aims to improve cats’ acceptance and consumption of targeted foods in critical periods of life, ultimately supporting their health and well-being.
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