NDAP Marks 70th Annual Convention, Celebrating Seven Decades of Nutrition Excellence

 The Nutritionist-Dietitians’ Association of the Philippines (NDAP) marks a historic milestone as it celebrates its 70th Annual Convention from February 18-20, 2025, at Manila Hotel. The event brought together the country’s leading experts in nutrition to discuss the latest advancements in health and wellness in nutrition. 

A former Ajinomoto Foundation scholar, Dr. Giselle Grace Lim-Co Yu Kang , led the discussion on Transforming Taste and Nutrition: Practical Innovations for Dietetic Practice at NDAP’s 70th Annual Convention in Manila Hotel.

As a Platinum Sponsor of this landmark event, Ajinomoto Philippines Corporation (APC) proudly reinforced its commitment to nutrition, sustainable diets, and public health. With decades of expertise in food science and taste innovation, APC joins this year’s convention to emphasize the importance of nutrition without compromising taste. The highlight was umami and the role it plays toward better dietary practices. 

Delegates from Asian Young Dietitians Network (AYDN), led by Ms. Andrea Wakita (right most) from Ajinomoto Co., Inc. Global Communications Department at Ajinomoto Philippines Corporation’s booth during NDAP’s 70th Convention

A key highlight of APC’s participation is the symposium "Transforming Taste and Nutrition: Practical Innovations for Dietetic Practice," featuring Dr. Giselle Grace Lim-Co Yu Kang, an esteemed expert in biochemistry and a proud former scholar of the Ajinomoto Foundation through APC. The session focused on how umami flavors can enhance vegetable consumption, addressing a crucial challenge in improving dietary habits by moving them towards a well-balanced, more sustainable lifestyle. 

 

Beyond the symposium, APC also welcomed Ms. Andrea Wakita from Ajinomoto Co., Inc. or AJICO Global Communications Department, along with 15 members of the Asian Young Dietitians Network (AYDN), fostering international collaboration among nutrition professionals. The delegation collaborated with local experts to exchange knowledge and share best practices in sustainable nutrition.

As NDAP celebrates 70 years of leadership in nutrition and dietetics, Ajinomoto Philippines Corporation took the opportunity to reinforce its role as a trusted partner in health and wellness. By engaging with dietitians, healthcare professionals, and wellness advocates, APC continues its mission to provide science-backed, sustainable, and flavorful nutrition solutions for Filipinos.

 

This initiative embodies Ajinomoto Group’s “Eat Well, Live Well” philosophy, bringing together the power of nutrition and innovation to shape a healthier future for the Philippines.

 

Delegates from Asian Young Dietitians Network (AYDN), led by Ms. Andrea Wakita (right most) from Ajinomoto Co., Inc. Global Communications Department at Ajinomoto Philippines Corporation’s booth during NDAP’s 70th Convention

 

 

About the Nutritionist-Dietitians’ Association of the Philippines (NDAP)

 

Established in 1955, the Nutritionist-Dietitians’ Association of the Philippines (NDAP) has been at the forefront of advancing nutrition and dietetics in the country for seven decades. As the leading organization for Filipino nutrition professionals, NDAP is dedicated to promoting evidence-based dietary practices, professional development, and public health advocacy. Its annual convention serves as a premier platform for collaboration, education, and innovation, bringing together experts and industry leaders to drive meaningful progress in the field of nutrition.

 

Ajinomoto Foundation Postgraduate Scholarship: Your Path to Success at Japan’s Premier Universities

 Ajinomoto Group Turning Aspirations into Achievements at Japan’s Leading Universities

 

Before the Ajinomoto Foundation Postgraduate Scholarship, Rogie Royce Caradang was a college kid with a dream and global perspective. He knew he wanted to do more after he graduated, to expand his education so he could learn everything he could about science.

 

It was Rogie Royce's dearest wish to make a difference in the world of science. And before  the Ajinomoto Foundation Scholarship Program he was in search of direction. Once he realized he was a perfect fit, a high achiever looking to broaden his horizons, he applied and pursued his postgraduate studies in Japan.

 

His experience in Japan was life changing. But Carandang knew that he was only going to get as far as he was willing to work hard. But in studying abroad and gaining a new springboard towards his dreams, he was able to breakthrough and even make consequential discoveries that may even lead to cures for illnesses like cancer. 

 

Carandang started his Masteral Degree in Aquatic Natural Products Chemistry at the University of Tokyo in April 2013and finished it in March 2016. He was able to publish his research in an international journal and parlayed his success into a position as a Postdoctoral Fellow at The University of Connecticut Health. His journey exemplifies the Ajinomoto Postgraduate Scholarship’s potential to create global impact while shaping professional and personal growth.

 

"This scholarship is not just financial support—it is a transformative opportunity to broaden your horizons, advance your career, and make a lasting impact in your field." says the now world-renowned Research Fellow. Carandang attributes his success to hard-work, finding the right focus, and then taking that leap off a springboard into more than he had ever thought he could achieve. 

 

The Ajinomoto Foundation Postgraduate Scholarship program catapulted Carandang onto the international stage. Now it’s up to him to show the world what he is capable of. Nowadays, those goals are so much greater than he could have even imagined as a college kid. His post-graduate studies showed him new dreams, new problems, and new solutions and as a scientist, that’s all he could ask for. 

 

The Ajinomoto Foundation Postgraduate Scholarship is a culturally immersive support program to encourage postgraduate studies in top universities in Japan. This grant supports deserving Filipino students looking to pursue master’s degree in Food Science and Technology, Human Nutrition, Chemistry, and Engineering. The Program is seeking applicants now for the 2026 cycle of awards. Visithttps://www.ajinomoto.com.ph/whats-new-archive/2026-ajinomoto-foundation-postgraduate-scholarship-grant/ to know more.

 

Celebrate Healthy and Delicious Holidays with Ajinomoto's Umami Recipe Ideas!

The holidays are all about gathering around a meal and making memories — and what better way to celebrate the season than with a special feast from the heart? Christmas dinners are a time for families to go all out with flavorful dishes, but that doesn’t mean they can’t be healthy too! 

 

As our gift to you this December, we’re bringing you Holiday Healthy recipes that will help you share the cheer with the whole family! From fresh pastas to nourishing mains that hit the spot, these dishes will help you make memories to look back on for many years to come! Let’s Eat Well and Live Well to make this season healthy, bright, and delicious! 

 

Vegan Meatball One-Pot Pasta

 

Wanna make sure everyone is happy while also keeping your to-do list short? This one-pot wonder is perfect for the busy holiday cook, while providing a healthy, plant-based pair to the usual hearty mains.

 

 

Steps to Make:

Mix cauliflower, kangkong, tofu, garlic, AJI-NO-MOTO® Umami Seasoning, salt, and flour in a bowl. Scoop a tablespoon of the mixture and mold it into balls. Pan-fry the vegan meatballs in hot oil until golden brown, then drain and set aside.

 

In the same pot, sauté garlic and onion in additional oil until fragrant. Add tomatoes and tomato paste, then cook until soft. Pour in water and bring to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook until al dente.

 

Once the pasta is cooked, season with AJI-NO-MOTO® Umami Seasoning, salt, black pepper, and brown sugar. Add the fried vegan meatballs and mix well. Transfer to a serving plate, garnish with parsley and Parmesan if desired, and serve!

 

 

Malunggay Pesto Pasta

This bright and healthy dish will bring a pop of greens to your table – something to cut through all those heavy dishes! 

 

Steps to Make:

Blend malunggay leaves, basil, garlic, peanuts, Parmesan, olive oil, AJI-NO-MOTO® Umami Seasoning, and pepper until smooth.

 

Toss the cooked pasta with the malunggay pesto until well coated.

 

Transfer to a serving plate, serve, and enjoy!

 

 

Lemongrass Chicken with Garlic Tamarind Sauce

This warm and aromatic main course combines the fresh scent of lemongrass with tender chicken; a perfect centerpiece around to build your meal, made with ingredients with good amounts of Vitamin B6 and protein!

 

Steps to Make:

Combine lemongrass, garlic, AJI-NO-MOTO® Umami Seasoning, calamansi, black pepper, coco sugar, and chicken in a bowl. Mix well and let it marinate in the fridge for at least 15 minutes.

 

In a saucepan, combine tamarind, garlic, coconut milk, water, AJI-NO-MOTO® Umami Seasoning, and coco sugar. Simmer for about 15 minutes until the sauce thickens, then set aside.

 

Heat oil in a griddle pan and grill the marinated chicken for 5 minutes on each side or until cooked through.

 

Serve the grilled chicken with the sauce on the side. 

 

 

Chicken Cajun Pasta

A spicy surprise to heat up the cooler season, this balanced and bold pasta dish is the perfect way to spice up your holiday menu. It’s a guaranteed hit for any guests who love a little kick.

 

Steps to Make:
Heat oil and butter in a pot, then add chicken and cook until golden brown. Add onions and sauté until translucent, then stir in tomatoes and French beans. Cook for 3 minutes.

 

Add penne pasta, cream cheese, Cajun spice mix (smoked paprika, oregano, thyme, AJI-NO-MOTO® Umami Seasoning, and cayenne powder), and mix well. Cook for 3-5 minutes.

 

Transfer to a serving platter, garnish with spring onions if desired, and serve. 

 

 

Creamy Salmon Garlic

Pairing fresh and tender salmon with a creamy garlic sauce, this showstopper is great for any festive gathering. Show some holiday spirit to your family and friends with this blast of flavors! 

 

Steps to Make:
Heat oil and butter in a pot, then add chicken and cook until golden brown. Add onions and sauté until translucent, then stir in tomatoes and French beans. Cook for 3 minutes.

 

Add penne pasta, cream cheese, Cajun spice mix (smoked paprika, oregano, thyme, AJI-NO-MOTO® Umami Seasoning, and cayenne powder), and mix well. Cook for 3-5 minutes.

 

Transfer to a serving platter, garnish with spring onions, and serve. 

 

 

Holidays are best celebrated with food that brings everyone together, and these recipes are great ways to make your gatherings extra special. Each nutritious dish is crafted to fill your home with warmth, flavor, and joy, creating moments and memories worth savoring. 

 

As you prepare your holiday feast, remember that the best ingredient is always the time spent with family and friends. Let these recipes inspire meals that keep the family healthy, happy, and full. 

 

Happy Holidays, Ka-Cookmunity! 

 

 

Visit Cookmunity by Ajinomoto Philippines for more festive recipe ideas. You may also connect with us through Facebookand Tiktok for more updates.

 

SariCycle® Achieves Major Milestone at the Six-Month Mark

 Ajinomoto Philippines Corporation (APC), together with Basic Environmental Systems and Technologies (BEST) and the Quezon City Climate Change and Environmental Sustainability Department (QC CCESD), is proud to celebrate the six-month progress of the SariCycle® Program. This groundbreaking initiative has garnered over 600 active participants and has successfully collected more than 4,000 kilograms of single-use plastics (SUPs) since its launch in January 2024.

L-R: Johnkarl Manimbo – APC Sustainability Specialist, Japhet Bulingit - Corporate Sustainability Associate (BEST), Jonalyn Peñas - Business Development Officer (BEST), Andrea Villaroman - Head of QC CCESD, Ernie Carlos – APC Chief Sustainability Officer, Engr. Ceidge Razon - Corporate Sustainability Manager (BEST), Claire Vinarao - Chief, Adaptation Division (CCESD), Maribel Marquez - Acting Chief, Resource Efficiency Section (CCESD) and Kirstoff Buyoc – APC Sustainability Executive.

 

SariCycle® is a joint effort in the field of waste management and sustainability. The program was established to mitigate the increasing problem of plastic waste, focusing on collecting and recycling single-use plastic in smaller communities. This began in selected locations within Quezon City where there are large numbers of sari-sari stores. The participants, known as "SariCyclers," are incentivized with special product bundles from Ajinomoto Philippines. They are also given Environmental Points (EPs) that can be used as cash at participating vendors. 

 

Among the participants are key members of Quezon City’s livelihood programs, including beneficiaries of the “Tindahan niMayor Joy” initiative and persons with disabilities (PWD) beneficiaries. The collective effort of these SariCyclers has resulted in significant strides in promoting environmental responsibility and awareness.

 

During the six-month evaluation meeting held at the QC CCESD office, representatives from APC, BEST, and QC CCESD, headed by Ms. Andrea Villaroman, were all in attendance to share and update the program’s current achievements and the challenges ahead. APC’s Chief Sustainability Officer, Ernie Carlos, shared how grateful APC is to the community for their unwavering support and emphasized the importance of the collaboration between the public and private sectors.

 

“The SariCycle® Program is testament to the positive and impactful effects we can achieve for the good of our environment when we all work towards a more sustainable future. Indeed, we take inspiration from the communities in Quezon City and our partners at BEST, when it comes to being stewards of the environment,” Carlos said.

 

To acknowledge the company’s role in this environmental effort, Ajinomoto Philippines was honored at BEST’s 25th Anniversary celebration on September 16, 2024, at Crowne Plaza Manila. BEST, a key player in solid waste management in the Philippines, shared how proud they are to have worked with APC, and its dedication to environmental sustainability and awarded the company a plaque of appreciation for its active role in the SariCycle® Program. APC’s Sustainability Executive, Kirstoff Buyoc, accepted the award for Ajinomoto Philippines. He also served as co-presenter for the recognition given to the top-performing SariCyclers during the event.

 

Also in attendance at the anniversary celebration were key leaders in the Circular Economy movement, including Senator Cynthia Villar, the principal author of the Extended Producers Responsibility (EPR) Law. This event highlighted the importance of the collaboration of the public and private sectors in winning sustainability initiatives and making things happen for the sake of the environment.

 

Ajinomoto Philippines remains committed to promoting responsible consumption and environmental stewardship through its ongoing initiatives. APC will continue to lead their projects with a positive outlook, looking forward to expanding the SariCycle® Program. To work closely with their partners to build a more sustainable future for all, true to their commitment in advocating the “Eat Well, Live Well” lifestyle. 

 

Why School Lunches Are Essential for Students

It is that time of the year again when kids have finally done all the activities they looked forward to for the summer. They already engaged in different hobbies and even tried new things that might soon be their regular routine during vacation, but now, it’s time they get back to the books and add more learning experiences at school as this new school year begins!

One of the challenges most parents face when classes resume would be having to think about what meals to prepare for their kids. Lunch is also one single meal kids shouldn’t miss, but sometimes, students who’ve had a long morning couldn’t help but look for something different other than their usual packed meals from the house. They may end up exploring different food choices in the canteen. Although flavorful, these meals may not include options that will contribute to the needed energy and nutrients these kids need to get through the day. Good thing, that with the resources we have including the vast information online, the usual questions of “what do I now prepare for mykids?” no longer have to be left unanswered! 

 

It’s time to make your kitchen the happiest and busiest part of your home as you can now recreate these amazing dishes and make them more special with Ajinomoto products. These aresure to turn packed lunches into packed excitement in a box! 

 

COMFORT FOOD AT ITS BEST

 

Chicken Adobo with Sarsaya® Oyster Sauce  https://www.cookmunitybyajinomoto.com/recipes/chicken-adobo/

 

Stir-fried Tofu with Vegetables using AJI-NO-MOTO Umami Seasoning  https://www.cookmunitybyajinomoto.com/recipes/stir-fried-tofu-with-vegtables-recipe/

 

AJINOMOTO Soup & Go®

 

Take inspiration from your kids’ adventurous side! These recipes are guides you can either follow to the tea or personalize them with your own twist! With Ajinomoto, making these recipes your own not only enhances the experience of cooking, but it also elevates the mealtime moments! 

 

Share your ideas by commenting on our posts on the AjinomotoCookmunity pages on Facebook and TikTok, and find more recipes on www.cookmunitybyajinomoto.com to include in your weekly food preparations for your kids now that school is back! 

 

Celebrating Ajinomoto’s Crispy Fry’s 20th Anniversary

Chicken cooked in this style has made its way all over the world by simply being that “go to” dish which everybody can enjoy. From variations on the way that it’s made, to the flavorings added, to the simple yet very familiar dish, as well as ways this meal is presented, Fried Chicken, is without a doubt, a meal that everyone knows about. This National Fried Chicken Day is the perfect opportunity to know more about the rich history and global variations of a dish so well-loved.

Fried chicken can be traced back to the Middle Ages, specifically in Europe with the Scottish immigrants bringing their frying techniques to the Americas in the 18th century. Since then, many versions of this dish has been shared. From just simply frying the chicken meat, a variety of spices and herbs have now been introduced to make the traditional recipe taste better.

Fried chicken has also been adapted in various cultures worldwide. The Koreans cook their chicken by double-frying the meat and then later dipping it in sweet and spicy sauces. The Japanese karaage, on the other hand, features marinated chicken pieces covered in potato starch that has light and crispy textures. The style found in Indonesia is fried chicken called ayam goreng, where the chicken is deeply marinated in local spices. Later on, distinct versions were made including the Southern Fried Chicken with its crispy coating and juicy meat marinated in buttermilk and spices. Even fried chicken found its pair, with the dish called chicken & waffles, wherein fried chicken is served with golden waffles with syrup complementing the savory experience.

Fried chicken even became more popular globally with the rise of fast-food chains, having their own take on the comfort-giving dish that truly made everyone find their perfect and favorite fried chicken of choice. Some people even became loyal to one fast food chain because of their version of fried chicken.

This July, Ajinomoto Philippines Corporation (APC) celebrates the 20th anniversary of Crispy Fry ́®, and just like the many variations of fried chicken that exists all over the world, APC has made sure that there’s one variant of Crispy Fry ́® fit for everybody’s taste.

Crispy Fry® Garlic is made with a more delicious, special blend of flour, starch, and seasoning, for those who ought to enjoy a more garlic-y flavor to their fried chicken, elevating the experience of having that crispy-sarap fried chicken in every bite. The Crispy Fry® Spicy variation is perfect for those who want that right amount of kick of heat. Truly a spicy-food lovers’ partner, this flavor is indeed fiery in all the right ways. Finally, the Crispy Fry® Original flavor is one that is dear to the Filipino household which you most probably would find in the cupboards of Pinoy home, waiting to be used, on-call, on-standby for all the best reasons. This product could easily make one receive compliments about their cooking; while also maintaining that home-y and original tasting recipe at home you yearn for after a long day at work.

No matter how many variations of fried chicken there may be in the world, the Filipino household can easily recognize fried chicken made with Crispy Fry®, simply because most of the customers catered by this product have grown up with it, and know how adding Crispy Fry® to their fried chicken dishes is the best option especially when you’re cooking for your family or friends, or even a whole team or barkada! National Fried Chicken Day is an important celebration for APC, given how Crispy Fry® continues to be supported by its market. Somehow, it is common knowledge in the Philippines that by adding this special ingredient to a fried chicken dish will make everything fall into place, regardless of if you know your ways around the kitchen or not!

APC wishes everyone a Happy National Fried Chicken Day! Wait, is that fried chicken we smell and hear sizzling in oil ready to give you that crispy-sarap bite?

Ajinomoto launches its new “I Love Veggie-licious” campaign under Ajinomoto Ginisa Flavor Seasoning brand

 

Building our kids' health through nutrition is crucial. 

 

Preparing vegetable meals at home is a great way to keep children strong and healthy. Vegetables are good sources of potassium, dietary fiber, folate, vitamin A, and vitamin C, and many others. 

 

Aside from its health benefits, compared to high prices of meat, vegetables are also budget friendly. However, homemakers are faced with the challenge of kid’s aversion to eating vegetables.

 

True to the “Eat Well, Live Well” promise, Ajinomoto Philippines Corporation (APC) aims to propel meaningful initiatives that will improve the health and wellbeing of Filipino families.  

 

APC recently launched its new “I Love Veggie-licious” campaign under Ajinomoto Ginisa Flavor Seasoning brand featuring the well-loved mother-daughter tandem of Marian Rivera-Dantes and Zia.   

 

"We believe that we can change how kids see vegetables in simple and delicious ways. With Aji-Ginisa® making vegetable dishes ginisarap, we aim to help homemakers gain confidence to get their children to eat more vegetables to eat well and live well." said Daryl Magno Marketing Department Head. 

 

Ajinomoto shares nutritious and affordable recipes that kids will enjoy

Building our kids' health through nutrition is crucial as they go back to school. 

 

Preparing vegetable meals at home is a great way to keep children strong and healthy. This is especially important as the flu season is also upon us.  Vegetables are good sources of potassium, dietary fiber, folate, vitamin A, and vitamin C, and many others. 

 

Aside from its health benefits, with rising prices of pork and chicken, vegetables are also budget friendly. As homemakers face the day-to-day challenge of budgeting while striving to prepare nutritious and delicious dishes, these easy-to-prepare and veggie-licious recipes come in handy.  

 

“In our own way, we aim to provide solutions and equip homemakers with knowledge on preparing affordable, nutritious and delicious meals for the family by sharing thoughtful recipes that take health and budget into consideration,” shares Ajinomoto Philippines Corporation (APC Group) General Manager Corporate Planning and Public Relations Roann Co. 

 

To make it more appealing to kids, these easy-to-prepare vegetable recipes are made tastier with Tasty Boy All Purpose Breading Mix that only costs PHP 11.00 SRP. 

Kalabasa Crisps

French fries and potato chips have always been a kiddie favorite. Now, homecooks can recreate them with a healthy twist through Kalabasa Crisps. It is made with only 3 ingredients: sliced kalabasa, cooking oil, and Tasty Boy Breading Mix. Not only is this a delicious snack that kids can munch on while doing their homework, kalabasa or squash is also a good source of Beta-Carotene that supports better eye health. Full recipe here.

 

Veggie Okoy Bites

A new recipe idea to entice kids to eat is by making it fun and colorful. Serving Veggie Okoy Bites filled with yellow potatoes, orange carrots, and green beans is a good way to make kids excited for healthy food.  These various colors also represent the multiple nutrients that the kids can get as this dish is rich in carbohydrates and vitamins A, C, and fiber. Check the recipe here. 

 

Tokwa Crisps

Another food that children don’t get tired of is nuggets. This is why having a healthier alternative through Tokwa Crisps is a great addition to every homecook’s recipe book. Preparing it is quick and easy too! It can be done in less than 20 minutes and consists of 3 ingredients only: tokwa, cooking oil, and Tasty Boy Breading Mix. Aside from the convenience and delicious taste, tokwa is also rich in calcium which can help kids have stronger teeth and bones. See recipe here.

 

APC Group’s brand promise of Eat Well, Live Well provides Filipinos with easy and affordable ways to serve healthy meals especially to their kids.  "We believe that we can change how kids see vegetables in simple and delicious ways. We hope that through our recipes, we can help parents get their children to eat well and live well especially during these trying times," said Roann Co. 

 

For more nutritious and delicious recipes, please can check out www.cookmunitybyajinomoto.com.ph