Login
Register

Tag: Thailand

Thammasat Digital Skill Space, a course to shape ‘investors’ of the future

Posted on by Thammasat University

Thammasat University in collaboration with the Stock Exchange of Thailand and SkillLane Education Company Limited has launched the “Thammasat Digital Skill Space” project which is a development of a comprehensive investment learning course.

Students will obtain a deep understanding of the capital market ecosystem and be trained in sustainable investment skills amid the changing and uncertainty of the future world. This project will provide opportunities for Thammasat students to learn, collect and transfer credits or can be counted as elective courses or free elective courses according to the course requirements. In the future, there will be opportunities for students of all institutions, high school students as well as those who are interested in to attend.

Assoc. Prof. Gasinee Witoonchart, Rector of Thammasat University, said that the rapid and drastic changes in the modern world have caused the role of universities and educational institutions to change accordingly.

The World Economic Forum predicts that within the next 5 years around the world, as many as 85 million jobs will be lost, while 97 million new jobs will be occured. However, there will be a lot of unemployed persons, while many jobs will not be done by anyone. As these people do not have the skills to do new jobs, universities or educational institutions therefore need to rethink on how to respond to this question raised.

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Phipop Udon, Vice Rector for Academic Affairs, Thammasat University said that within the Thammasat Digital Skill Space project, there will be an intensive development of investment learning courses, starting from an online course of the Stock Exchange of Thailand (SET e-Learning) that provides knowledge from basic to advanced knowledge such as financial planning, investment in stocks, derivatives, mutual funds, bonds, etc.

Thammasat University as a leading educational institution with outstanding business school accredited by three global accreditation institutions in business administration (Triple Crown) will redesign such knowledge set into “courses” that are in line with today’s changes, while SkillLane as an online education experts will join forces to develop a platform that makes learning accessible to everyone.

Dr.Pakorn Pitathawatchai, Director and Manager, the Stock Exchange of Thailand said that the Stock Exchange of Thailand aims to develop the capital market to benefit all sectors. One of the key missions that has been carried out continuously is to promote financial literacy, especially among students. The Stock Exchange of Thailand has continuously worked with universities to disseminate knowledge with body of knowledge and media that the Stock Exchange of Thailand has developed which can be used as a tool for further development of courses systematically in the university.

Mr. Thitipong Phisitwuthinan, Chief Executive Officer and Co-Founder of SkillLane said, “In the present, technology has made it easier, faster and better for people to learn, which is in line with today’s behavior. From our direct experience in developing online learning platform for many leading organizations, including having previously collaborated with Thammasat University in TUXSA Project, an online master’s degree programs that has been successfully operated. This has proven that our technology provides people with unrestricted access to quality education in terms of time and place.”

However, the courses that will be offered online are: 1. TU201: Financial Literacy for Individuals 2. TU202: Complete Investment and 3. TU: 301: Investment in the Stock Market

Early detection saves lives: HPV testing kits Chula’s innovation for women’s health

Posted on by Chulalongkorn University

Chulalongkorn University’s researchers have developed a cervical cancer test kit that uses urine samples. A simple, accurate, and fast method of early detection is guaranteed for its quality by the 2021 Outstanding Inventions Award from the National Research Council of Thailand.

Cervical cancer can be cured if detected in its early stages. Many women are, however, deterred by the rather high cost of the screening procedure, and the pap smear testing method. This leads to late detection that can cause cancer to spread making it harder to treat.

Today, there is a new invention that makes cervical cancer treatment a simpler and pain-free procedure that can be done frequently.

The HPV paper-based DNA sensor testing kits for cervical cancer developed by the Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Chulalongkorn University’s research team comprising Prof. Dr. Orawan Chailapakul, Dr. Prinjaporn Tee-ngam, Sarida Naorungroj, Dr. Somrak Petchcomchai along with Prof. Dr. Tirayut Vilaivan

Dr. Prinjaporn, one of the main researchers on the team discussed how this innovation was conceived, “The government has consistently urged women to get tested for cervical cancer. One of the limitations of the original form of testing which requires taking a sample of cells from the cervix on stirrups invokes fear in many women who would rather avoid the test altogether. For this reason, we have tried to find an easier way that most women would feel more comfortable with. This could help to increase the number of those being tested as well as the frequency of their tests so that if any anomalies are found, then treatment can be immediately provided.”

Getting to know cervical cancer

Cervical cancer is the second most common cancer of women in Thailand after breast cancer with an incidence rate of 10,000 new cases per year affecting women between the ages of 30-60 and claiming as many as 5,000 deaths each year. The Ministry of Public Health recommends that from the age of 25 women should receive regular screening for cervical cancer every five years.

Prof. Dr. Orawan explains that cervical cancer is a sexually transmitted disease, mainly caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). The use of condoms as protection cannot prevent such transmission, and the HPV vaccine is not yet prevalent or provides 100% protection against cervical cancer.

She also stressed that “Most of those who have been affected are asymptomatic which makes it necessary for us to still be tested regularly since that is a crucial way to prevent us from the disease and death.”

The HPV paper-based DNA sensor testing kits

The cervical cancer testing kits are easier and much faster than the Pap Smear or Pap Tests currently in use. It eliminates the need to insert a tool and hold the vaginal walls open as well as swabbing over the cervix to take cell samples that are sent to the lab for testing.

“HPV paper-based sensor testing is a way to test the DNA of the HPV virus by using PNA (Peptide Nucleic Acid) which is a synthetic substance that imitates our DNA designed to be specific according to the cells being tested which can be specified since HPV comes in many different strains and not all strains cause cervical cancer. When designing the substance, we needed to determine which strains there were when it comes to HPV infection,” said Prof. Dr. Orawan.

The HPV paper-based sensor testing kit is something that a lot of us are already familiar with from the ATK tests we have undergone for COVID-19.

“The urine is mixed in a solution then dropped onto the paper after which we notice the change in color of the solution. Normally the color of the solution is bright red but if the urine is contaminated by the virus the color appears lighter. The brightness of the color varies according to the amount of the virus. We have an additional tool, used with the colorimeter application on smartphones that helps make the color more visible.”

Prof. Dr. Orawan assured us that the HPV paper-based sensor testing kit has been tested and shows a high level of accuracy with a sensitivity of 85%, specificity of 78%, and reproducibility rate of 100%.”

The HPV Testing Kits have not been produced for home use. They are, however, being used in health centers and community hospitals.

“In the urine, there are fewer DNA materials than in tissues, which means we need to have a device that increases the DNA level so that the change of color is more visible and the device is already in use in the clinics and community hospitals.”

How to watch over our health to stay away from cervical cancer

Prof. Dr. Orawan left us with some tips on how to help women stay safe from cervical cancer. “First, women should make sure they always keep their vaginal areas clean. Vaccinations are good but the prevention they offer isn’t a hundred percent. The best way is to have regular cervical cancer checkups for early detection and treatment.”

The research team hopes that this innovation will motivate women to get themselves tested regularly, with a simple and painless process, at an affordable price. Each test kit should not exceed 500 baht.

Prof. Dr. Orawan left us with these words. “We’d like to see women getting cervical cancer tests regularly as advised by the Ministry of Public Health. Therefore, we have tried to make the cost of these kits as low as possible to make them easily accessible. It would be ideal if women can be tested regularly, for example once a month at a health center nearby.”

Nursing facilities or agencies interested in these HPV paper-based DNA sensor testing kits may contact Prof. Dr. Orawan Chailapakul at the Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Chulalongkorn University, email address [email protected] for more information.

Thammasat to launch 88 SANDBOX, largest startup ecosystem in Thailand

Posted on by Thammasat University

Thammasat University has launched “88 SANDBOX: The Next Unicorn Platform”, a center for entrepreneurial skills learning of the future with a network of 88 Sandbox Partners as sponsors and will contribute as “Mentor” to spark the fire of dreams and pass on success to create the next “unicorn”.

Assoc. Prof. Gasinee Witoonchart, Rector of Thammasat University, revealed that TU, as a university for the people has the intention to foster Thai startups to the world level using the potential and abilities that the university in collaboration with the 88 SANDBOX project to advance and transform creativity into value and sustainable business.

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Pipop Udon, Vice President for Academic Affairs, TU, said that 88 SANDBOX will be a platform for everyone, regardless of gender, age, education or ethnicity to visit and build the skills that are suitable and necessary for building a startup. This is to prepare ordinary people to become entrepreneurs.

Ms. Jiraporn Khaosawat, Executive Chairman of PTT Oil and Retail Public Company Limited or PTTOR said that at this time the world is changing in every dimension. We all need to keep up with the world and that the most important thing is to bring the digital world and the physical world together. This is an open opportunity for Thai startups as emerging technology means the emergence of new opportunities to develop and upgrade the Thai economy in the future

Ruangrote Poonphon or Krating, who has been designated as The Godfather of Thai Startup, one of Silicon Valley’s co-workers, said Southeast Asia is currently spawning a large number of unicorn-level startups whether in Singapore or Indonesia, therefore 10 years from now , it will be regarded as the best time to start a startup business.

For 88 SANDBOX: The Next Unicorn Platform is a project that combines education of the future with the science of business administration that keeps pace with changes.

It will be conducted through 5 important activities, namely:

1. Skill Space, develop entrepreneurial skills through the Learning Platform and create an idea marketplace
2. Expo, the largest startup exhibition. This will be a space for creative people to meet and gather.
3. Pre-Hackathon, startups will be closely monitored and mentored by business mentors to develop their skills, ideas and work methods.
4. Hackathon, a platform where startups compete in projects. And those who are selected will receive investment funding.
5. Forest of Unicorn, provides startups with privileges and a rich growth environment and will enable all startups to fully enter the business world.

In addition, you can update more information and news on the 88 SANDBOX project website at https://www.facebook.com/88Sandbox

Thammasat University joins the world in celebrating International Women’s Day

Posted on by Thammasat University

On March 8, 2022, Thammasat University takes pride in co-hosting the International Women’s Day event with the Embassy of Israel in Thailand to hold a keynote speech under the theme “Gender equality today for a sustainable tomorrow: Global Gender Equality Challenge” – calling for climate action for women, by women.

On this occasion, Ms. Orna Sagiv, Israel’s ambassador to Thailand, Miss Anchilee Scott-Kemmis, Miss Universe Thailand 2021, and Ms. Nitcharee Pen-eakchanasak, a Thammasat University alumna, all spoke at the event, highlighting the importance of advocating women’s rights.

The event was graced and officially opened by Her Excellency Ms. Orna Sagiv, Israel’s ambassador to Thailand. She pointed out that, in the world we are living in, it takes a lot of effort to prove that a woman has equal capabilities as a man. This is the myth that prevents us from breaking gender barriers.

Apart from that, she also gave her testimony of her journey to success to prove that “Women Can Do It.” At the tender age of 18, she said, she embarked on a journey of becoming a soldier resulting in her present rise in the social ladder as a woman.

As fate would have it, Ambassador Sagiv became one of the few women in the diplomatic mission where she distinguished herself and demystified the myth that women can’t hold positions ‘meant’ for men.

Miss Anchilee Scott-Kemmis, Miss Universe Thailand 2021, spoke at the same event and encouraged women to achieve their goals with their heads high while ignoring societal stereotypes about women. She also highlighted that beauty is not the only definition of what it means to be a woman; confidence and belief in oneself can make a successful woman. The smiling beauty who is representing Thailand did indeed inspire young girls.

Finally, Thammasat University alumna Ms. Nitcharee Pen-eakchanasak shared her successful testimony of how disability is never an inability. She showcased her ability to live a normal life by swimming, competing in marathons, and winning medals.

In her own words, Ms. Pen-eakchanasak said she never cries when she talks about her tragedy of losing both legs in a train accident. She agreed to have her legs amputated because she believed the pain would go away. Despite the misfortune, she has become a highly successful motivational speaker and the founder of a non-profit organization.

The Rector of Thammasat University, Assoc. Prof. Gasinee Witoonchart, successfully concluded the event. She elaborated on how equality is the most fundamental human right and how it relates to SDG 5, which is to achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls.

“Every individual is born with it, no matter your race, nationality, appearance, religion, and, of course, gender. We have to RECOGNIZE and RESPECT this human right of equality for all.”

Secondly, she discussed how women had been treated unfairly and unequally throughout history. However, the world has progressed from the old mindset, and we now live in a world of DIVERSITY, in which gender is no longer viewed as a dichotomy, or as only male and female.

In her speech, she also emphasized how the world has to recognize and respect more than a dozen of sexual orientations, including LGBTTQQIAAP and possibly others. Gender is fluid. The rector concluded that diversity is the foundation of global prosperity today and in the future – “We can only move forward in peace if we embrace diversity. And diversity undoubtedly includes gender and sexuality differences. In summary, I would like to leave you with two R: RECOGNIZE and RESPECT,”

The seminar ended with a question-and-answer session, during which the speakers demonstrated their commitment to gender equity through their responses. Nonetheless, it is up to us as a society to continue to push this matter forward – so that our society can be truly equal for all people of all genders.

Alcohol-free medical antiseptic and moisturizing spray

Posted on by Chulalongkorn University

Chula researchers recently launched a fast-acting, alcohol-free disinfectant for viruses and bacteria that is gentle on the hands. Nationally patented, the innovation was selected as a souvenir for the Thailand Research Expo 2021.

Frequently applying alcohol spray or gel helps reduce your chance of contracting the COVID-19 virus but at the cost of dry and itchy hands. This was the problem that Assistant Professor Dr. Rojrit Rojanathanes, Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Chulalongkorn University determined to solve, and succeeded in developing “Medical Antiseptic and Moisturizing Spray” that can kill the COVID-19 virus, and bacteria within one minute.

“As a replacement for alcohol spray, we invented this product that has no side effects, is non-irritating, and non-flammable. More importantly, it is cheaper than alcohol,” said Asst. Prof. Dr. Rojrit.

With this special feature, the innovative Medical Antiseptic and Moisturizing Spray were selected as a souvenir at the Thailand Research Expo 2021 at Centara Grand Hotel, and Central World’s Bangkok Convention Center, Bangkok, November 22-26, 2021.

Assistant Professor Amornpun Sereemaspun, M.D., Head of the Nanomedicine Research Unit and Director of the Chula Medical Innovation Center (CMIC) who proposed the alcohol-free disinfectant idea to Asst Prof.Dr.Rojrit to develop it into a product added that “healthcare workers and the general public need to use disinfectant products several times daily. This irritates the skin making it very dry, and even develops open wounds. So, we think non-alcohol disinfectant is much needed.”

Medical Antiseptic and Moisturizing Spray, a new all-over-body solution
This antiseptic product is nothing new. It is a combination of existing items to create a new product that is more effective and affordable.

“We use a substance whose membrane has positively charged ions to destroy the cell membrane of the coronavirus. A certain compound is also added to the solution to inhibit the enzyme activity of the virus, enhancing the efficacy of the spray,” Asst. Prof. Dr. Rojrit explained while adding that the various compounds used in the product are certified by the World Health Organization (WHO) for their ability to kill various microorganisms, including viruses, bacteria, and fungi, and are harmless to users.

Another outstanding feature of the product apart from killing pathogens is its moisturizing property.

“The alcohol used for disinfection is highly concentrated, and may cause irritation to the user’s skin and it is flammable. We, therefore, invented a water-based disinfectant as a substitute. Apart from its non-irritating quality, it is also not as volatile as alcohol, so the solution can stay on the skin for a long time. It also sticks to the face mask or clothing when sprayed, and remains effective longer than alcohol,” said Asst. Prof. Dr. Rojrit. “The product comes in spray form that can be used on the body where moisturization and disinfectant are needed. There is no need to rinse and it can be reapplied every four hours, but avoid eye, mouth, and nasal cavity areas. The spray can be stored for up to two years.”

At present, the product is registered as a national patent and is in the process of technology transfer to SCG Chemicals Co., Ltd. for distribution. The technology is also open to any entrepreneurs who are interested in commercializing the product.

Thammasat’s Faculty of Public Health participate in Thailand Global Health Action Plan

Posted on by Thammasat University

Professor Dr. Surasak Soonthorn, the representative from Global Health Program (International Programs), Faculty of Public Health, Thammasat University had been invited to participate in the 2021 Thailand Global Health Action Plan 2021-2027 seminar organized by the International Affairs Division, Ministry of Public Health to exchange knowledge and experience in global health operations and prepared an annual action plan for the year 2021 under the Global Health Action Plan 2021-2027. A total of 27 agencies attended the meeting and qualified speakers from both within and outside the Ministry of Public Health.

As a result of the meeting, the role of educational institutions with global health courses (Global Health) had been revealed. In the future, these educational institutions will play a role as academic supporters in the field of human resource development in both short-term and long-term courses. The exchange of experts in global health knowledge in the form of network partners, both within and outside the Ministry of Public Health. The exchange of experiences on the 8 Key Global Health operations, including the results of the analysis of the process of developing “Pandemic treaty” and the results of the “COP26” meeting, which will directly and indirectly affect Thailand’s global health operations. In addition, a goal has been proposed for Thailand to become “Global Health 5.0” to drive solving health problems beyond conventional health, along with the guidelines for striving to achieve such goals.

A breakthrough in probiotic therapy

Posted on by Chulalongkorn University

Based on the research “Comparative Microbiome Analysis for the Probiotics Development” with the support of the Thailand Research Fund (TRF), Assoc. Prof. Dr. Krit Pongpirul, M.D., M.P.H., Ph.D. Department of Preventive and Social Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University discovered several probiotics that help reduce blood lipids, liver fat, and skin fat, and was inspired to create the Personalized Probiotics (Dispensing) Machine (PPM) so that each person receives the correct dose and strains as needed.

“This device can dispense probiotics to people with poor microbial homeostasis, and people who lack certain beneficial microorganisms, including those with unknown illnesses, to boost and maintain the balance of microorganisms within the body,” said Assoc. Prof. Dr. Krit.

Microbial balance for good health
In our body reside hundreds of intestinal microorganisms, on which humans rely to maintain bodily balance.

“The right amounts of good microbes in the body help optimize the metabolic system, especially for fat and sugar, and prevent or reduce allergy, fight against pathogens and some forms of cancer,” Assoc. Prof. Dr. Krit said, adding that he is currently conducting research to compare the microorganisms in various cancer patients, e.g. cervical cancer1-2, colon cancer3-4, breast cancer5-6, and prostate cancer, etc.

Symptoms of dysbiosis
When the body lacks certain beneficial microorganisms, it will suffer an imbalance of microorganisms or dysbiosis with symptoms such as frequent bloating, diarrheas, bad breath, chronic allergies, rough skin, excessively oily skin, insomnia, stress, and premature aging, and so on.

“For example, some patients come to the doctor with several ‘minor’ symptoms such as insomnia, rashes, sneezing, obesity, and mood swings. From a general examination, these symptoms are unexplained health problems, and the doctor will just treat the symptoms. Many are found to suffer from dysbiosis, and when treated with tailored probiotics, their conditions gradually improve,” Assoc. Prof. Dr. Krit said.

Microbial Test Kit
Everybody needs different types of probiotics, and each day, those in the body fluctuate, both in quantity and diversity. Consumption of generic probiotics available in the market may not always be beneficial. Assoc. Prof. Dr. Krit suggested checking for your microorganism deficiency and just replenishing those the body lacks.

“Currently, hospitals have labs to test for microbial imbalances and often use the “16s rRNA sequencing” technology. Yet, tests are quite pricey and take two to three weeks to produce the results. By then, the body microorganisms would have already changed, and the results, obsolete.”

Such problems motivated Assoc. Prof. Dr. Krit to develop a “portable microbial test kit” (2,500 baht per set) that can be done at home.

“Currently, one kit contains five tests that can be done by dissolving feces in buffer solution and drop into each of the five tests. Wait 15 minutes to read and record the results to forward to the doctor who makes the diagnosis, and order personalized dose and types of probiotics.”

Targeted Probiotic Therapy
Once the deficiency is detected, the prescription requires specificity, hence the Personalized Probiotics (Dispensing) Machine that keeps the products fresh and nearly 100% alive.

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Krit went on to explain that “once the patients have their test results, the doctor will make the diagnosis for further treatment done in three steps.”

  1. Information intake and patients’ touchpoint: patients’ test data entry into the system to calculate the appropriate dose and variety of the probiotics;
  2. Compartmentalized probiotics harvest: preparation of probiotics under temperature and humidity control;
  3. Dispensing of personalized probiotics using the dispenser.

“The dispenser will provide liquid probiotics that patients can drink instantly for freshness while the microorganisms are still alive. All 23 types of the microorganisms match the FDA’s s Announcement,” Assoc. Prof. Dr. Krit confirmed.

“The probiotic supplements in the market may only be about 50 percent live, thus their ability to balance the bodily systems are drastically inferior.”

Moreover, the personalized probiotics dispenser can dispense both single-strain and multi-strain probiotics, as well as desired types, and quantities.

A Breakthrough in Probiotic Therapy for Balanced Bodily Systems
Currently, the personalized probiotics dispenser has been petty patented, and the units are being manufactured. However, their use needs to be kept under the supervision of trained medical practitioners for the utmost safety and benefit of the patients.

“Those interested in microbial homeostasis are welcome to come for a consultation at Phor Por Ror Building, 16th Floor, Preventive Medicine, every Wednesday morning. The treatment should be done five consecutive times (1 course). In the beginning, the doctor will make appointments for an overall checkup, and bi-weekly probiotic drinks. Once the body is balanced, patients can increase the intervals between visits. Each course of treatment costs about 10,000 baht.”

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Krit expects that both the portable test kit, and the personalized probiotics dispenser will be available in the market, hospitals, and health centers in early 2022. He also mentioned a joint investment with the National Science and Technology Development Agency (NSTDA), and the private sector to develop ready-to-drink probiotics for lipid metabolism.

A balanced diet to increase probiotics in your body
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Krit said that 96% of good health is from preventive care. Adding beneficial microorganisms into the body is one way to maintain its biological balance. Eating yogurt, kimchi, and fermented foods in daily life is a start.

“Choosing the right yogurt for your body can be done by observation. Each brand has different types of probiotics, so you should try consuming the same brand for seven days. Then switch, and observe if you become bloated, or have diarrhea. Jot down daily notes on how you feel to analyze the response of the body. You will find the right microorganisms that the body needs at that time,” Assoc. Prof. Dr. Krit concluded.

Those interested in microbial homeostasis can come for a consultation at Phor Por Ror Building, 16th Floor, Preventive Medicine, every Wednesday morning, or contact Tel. 0-2256-5425.

‘Vacuum Packed Crispy Fermented Fish’ created TU student wins first prize

Posted on by Thammasat University

When the world changes, the world food trends are then changing accordingly.

The goal of becoming the “Kitchen of the World” were simply to have fertile food production sources, a variety of raw materials or driven by traditional wisdom which are considerably no longer enough. A big turning point is therefore, relying on initiating food innovations that meet the needs of consumers with changing lifestyles, especially in the age of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Ra-Zabb, Vacuum Packed Crispy Fermented Fish”, the work of the “Ra-Zabb” team, which won the first prize from the Food Innopolis Contest 2021 in the Heavy Weights category, under the topic of Food Heritage Innovation. It is regarded as another food innovation that is responding effectively to the New Normal lifestyle. From regular “Fried Fermented Fish”, the heritage of traditional food wisdom of Korat people, then add value using science and technology processes to become “Ra-Zabb, Vacuum Crispy Fermented Fish”. Even though the appearance has been altered, yet retains the delicious taste of the Northeastern style, and as well can be kept for longer, easy to carry and can be eaten anywhere, by simply opening the envelope and it’s ready to taste.

The unique selling point of “Ra-Zabb, Vacuum Crispy Fermented Fish” are bite-sized, easy-to-eat fish meats that contain protein, calcium, vitamin B and iron. One sachet is equivalent to one whole tilapia fish, which can be stored up to 12 months, from sanitized sources and production processes that are safe and consumer-friendly.

In addition to “Ra-Zabb, Vacuum Crispy Fermented Fish”, there are also other food innovations initiated by TU students that have received awards from the Food Innopolis Contest 2021, of a total of 5 teams, 7 awards, such as “Trumpkin vegan cheese”, “Vegan cheese product” made from pumpkins, the work of the Trumpkin team which won the first prize and Popular Vote award in the Heavy Weights category, under the topic of Future Lifestyle Food Innovation.

“Gojuedrink”, “Carrageenan Jelly in Centella Asiatica Juice with Honey Lemon” product from the Gojuedrink team which received the first runner-up award in the Light Weight category under the topic of Food Heritage Innovation.

“Hody Cheese”, a new alternative cheese product from hemp seeds nourished with high protein, from the 3HC team which won the 2nd runner-up award in the Light Weight category under the topic of Future Lifestyle Food Innovation.

“Dè Blong” instant glutinous rice with coconut cream roasted in bamboo joints using Luem Pua Glutinous Rice, the work of the Crewmate TU team that won the Popular Vote award and the Honorable Mention Award in the Light Weight category under the topic of Food Heritage Innovation.

‘Hody Cheese’, plant-based cheddar cheese from hemp seeds

Posted on by Thammasat University

‘Hemp’ is becoming a common medicinal plant which is able to add value and develop into a wide range of food and beverage industries.

Similarly to ‘Hody Cheese’, plant-based cheddar cheese from hemp seeds, the work of the 3HC team that won the 2nd runner-up award from the Food Innopolis Contest 2021 in the Light Weight category under the topic of Future Lifestyle Food Innovation is as well selecting hemp seeds to use and develop into “Vegan Cheese” product, an innovated alternative food choice for the future living.

The 3HC team member consists of students from the School of Gloal Studies, Thammasat University and students from the Faculty of Science and Technology, Thammasat University which are, Mr. Makhawee Sukhawattano, Mr. Rak Phatthabhakdi, Ms. Nicharee Lohakijja, Ms. Nichakarn Boonsin, Mr. Chakaphong Thepchana and Mr. Phuriphat Sivaworavet, with Dr. Supattra Suphawong as the team advisor.

Mr. Makhawee Sukhawattano, a member of the 3HC team, said that he is personally interested in hemp, therefore chose to initiate a project that is associated with hemp. Both creating the hemp development project with Hmong people, trading hemp fibers with Hmong people and having the opportunity to attend student exchange program in Japan where he traded hemp fibers with the Japanese. He noticed that hemp can be processed into food, he then discussed with the professors at the Faculty of Science and Technology. The project to develop a plant-based cheddar cheese from hemp seeds was therefore established.

‘Hody Cheese’, plant-based cheddar cheese from hemp seeds is unique from regular vegan cheese in that it has a distinct aroma with soft and chewy texture, likewise cheese made from animal milk. When baked, it can stretch exactly like real cheese. It is also high in protein as hemp seeds contain more than 30% protein in every 100 gram of weight, containing omega 3, 6, 9, that are supportive to brain, nerves, and also has antioxidants that help slowing down skin deterioration.

Ms. Nicharee Lohakijj further explained that because hemp is relatively new to Thailand, at first, there were some legal issues and had not enough supporting information. When developing the product, we were required to study the process of curdling, proper protein extraction temperature, and having had to keep experimenting. When the temperature is too high, proteins will precipitate into turbid lumps which continuous development were necessary, taking us approximately one year to develop into tangible product over the course of the competition.

Mr. Makhawee added that hemp is interesting and that the market continues to enlarge. Currently, ‘Hody Cheese’ is reaching out to companies and seek for partnership to produce their actual product with a target group of vegetarian and clean food restaurants, the price is set at about 240 Thai Baht per 10 pieces, weighing about 10-15 grams per piece which when compared to the market price, it is cheaper than imported cheese.

Thammasat University signs research license agreement with ANTITOXIN GMBH

Posted on by Thammasat University

Assoc.Prof. Gasinee Witoonchart, Rector of Thammasat University presided over the signing ceremony of the research license agreement for “scFv Monoclonal antibody specific to the Di a blood group antigen generated by phage display technology and Anti- Di(a) Antibody method” to ANTITOXIN GmbH from Germany.

Lukas Quidenus, CEO of ANTITOXIN GmbH founded in 1966, is a company specializing in blood grouping for immunology. Mr. Lukas has shown interest in the research of Thammasat University that is compatible with the blood results of Thai and Asian population which is different from European population.

In the inspection process through this research, blood transfusion will therefore ensure the recipient receive more compatible blood and helps reduce risks and it is safer. This collaboration with ANTITOXIN GmbH will enable a research team led by Prof.Maj.Gen.Dr.Oythip Nathalang and Asst.Prof.Dr. Jeerapong Thanongsaksrikul, Lecturer of Biomedicine Program, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, to expand research results for commercial development.

This collaboration is considered the development of deep tech in biomolecular science of Thammasat University for launching market internationally which allows the development of public health and the health of global population in the future.