This line includes studies on the biological, nutritional and health properties of foods and bioactive components (nutraceuticals), for their application in the development of new functional foods. Likewise, research is carried out on the effect of foods and components of the Mediterranean diet on health, such as anticarcinogenic activity against colon cancer or the protective action of some components on intestinal integrity.

Within this line, research is also carried out on the relationships between gastrointestinal physiology, gastrointestinal microbiota, nutrition and food, studying molecular mechanisms involved in the processes of inflammation and intestinal dysbiosis, as well as the influence that some proteins and food fractions may have on them. Also, various aspects of food allergies are studied, such as the development of methods for the detection of allergens and the effect of technological treatments on their allergenicity.

Within the scope of this line, research is also carried out with the aim of describing the nutritional status of the child and adolescent population, including food and nutrient intake, physical activity and sedentary behaviors, physical condition and body composition. The aim of this research is to assess the prevalence of obesity in children and adolescents and its main risk factors, and the association between nutritional status during childhood and the development of chronic diseases. Likewise, intervention programs are developed to improve nutrition and increase the levels of physical activity in children and adolescents, in order to reduce the risk of chronic diseases. On the other hand, the effect of the consumption of different types of food on the nutritional status of children, adolescents and young people is also assessed.

This line includes three sublines:

• Functional foods and health.
• Gastrointestinal physiology and food allergies and intolerance.
• Growth, exercise, nutrition and development.