Faculty: Land and Food Sciences
Program: Master of Food Science
Year: 2024
Country: Ghana
Kanaan is a passionate individual with a growth mindset and an unwavering commitment to excellence. With a background in food science and technology from KNUST, Ghana, Kanaan is dedicated to enhancing food security and sustainability. His research interests lie in indigenous food crops and alternative food sources to meet increasing demand. In his final year, Kanaan’s enthusiasm for food value addition was reinforced as he delved into the properties of novel climate-resilient cowpea varieties. His exploration of their composition, and functional properties enabled him to suggest effective utilization strategies for local and industrial applications.
As an undergraduate committed to consumer welfare, Kanaan volunteered as a facilitator for food safety training, targeting local food vendors. He enhanced their understanding of basic microbiological concepts, pathogen prevention, and regulatory compliance documentation, empowering them to maintain high standards of hygiene and safety. In his role as a teaching and research assistant, he helped explore the use of cucurbit seeds for malnutrition alleviation. Currently, Kanaan has two manuscripts under review and has co-authored a published abstract on rapid food quality control methods.
Kanaan’s ultimate goal is to create a more sustainable and resilient food system that prioritizes nutrition, food security, and sustainability. He aims to combine academic learning with practical experience to influence policies, implement innovative solutions, and drive positive change in the food industry. Eager to join the vibrant UBC community, Kanaan looks forward to leveraging his skills and the knowledge gained from his Master’s in Food Science to make a meaningful impact.