Blog

Congratulations for the commendable achievements of students from the Department of Food Science and Technology at FoodTechno 2025 – International Research Session, 9th Annual Research Session of the Institute of Food Science and Technology (IFST), Sri Lanka, held on 5th January 2026 at Courtyard by Marriott, Colombo, Sri Lanka.

The following students were recognized for their outstanding performances:

• H. Dinithi Saubagya – Best Oral Presentation

Optimization of protein content in Wheat (Triticum aestivum) based pasta fortified with soy flour (Glycine max)

Supervised by Prof. W. L. Isuru Wijesekara

• Ramudi Andrahannadi – Best Poster Presentation (Functional Food Category)

Plant-based high-protein formulation for functional food application.

Supervised by Prof. Madhura Jayasinghe

• T.M.P.L.B. Thennakoon – Best Poster Presentation (Food Processing Category)

Development of a mobile application to enhance consumer awareness on food additives and the International Numbering System in Sri Lanka

Supervised by Prof. J.M.J.K. Jayasinghe

• L. Dinithi Sheyera De Silva – Runners-up, Best Poster Presentation (Food Processing Category)

Impact of Incubation Temperature on Volatile Compound Profile and Sensory Attributes of Beetroot (Beta Vulgaris L.) Enriched Probiotic Yoghurt.

Supervised by Dr. G.S.A. Senanayake and Prof. R.A.U.J. Marapana

The Department of Food Science and Technology of University of Sri Jayewardenepura had the honour of hosting Dr. Michael Miller, a renowned expert in the field of Food Microbiology from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, USA, during his recent visit to Sri Lanka.
While visiting USJ, Dr. Miller delivered an insightful guest lecture about his research work on Fermentation. This session was attended by academic staff, graduate and undergraduate students of the DFST/USJ
In addition to the lecture, Dr. Miller engaged in a productive discussion with the department’s academic staff regarding potential research collaborations opening new potential avenues for joint research initiatives, knowledge exchange, and academic partnerships between the two institutions.
The Department of Food Science and Technology is delighted to explore future collaborations with Dr. Miller and his team, sharing a common vision of advancing food microbiology research, and driving innovation in the food sector.

The Association of Food Science and Technology reaffirmed its commitment to social responsibility through the “Athwel Pawura – 2024” initiative. This year, the project focused on enhancing science education at Welimada Central College by repairing and restoring microscopes in the school’s advanced-level physics and biology laboratories. Additionally, whiteboards and books were donated to enrich classroom learning environments and expand library resources.
Members of the Association of Food Science and Technology, along with the Department of Food Science and Technology, actively participated by donating school textbooks, storybooks, past examination papers, and writing materials. To support the initiative financially, members organized creative fundraising activities, including the sale of bookmarks in various locations and soliciting contributions from alumni, corporate sponsors, and individual donors. These collective efforts ensured the successful execution of the project without financial constraints.
Beyond its immediate educational benefits, Athwel Pawura – 2024 provided an invaluable learning experience for the organizing members, equipping them with essential skills in project management, teamwork, and leadership. This initiative underscores the Association’s ongoing dedication to fostering educational development and empowering future generations through improved learning opportunities.

A proud achievement for the Department of Food Science and Technology, University of Sri Jayewardenepura, at ProFood ProPack Ag-Biz 2024!

Winner – Best Stall (Institutional Category)

2nd Runner-up – Best Innovation that Promotes Food Safety (Institutional Category