Skip to main content
Richard Bazinet and Mackenzie Smith in the lab

Research

Science Guiding Education, Policy And Outreach

Childhood nutrition is essential for human health. Poor nutrition in early years can lead to or compound numerous debilitating conditions. And yet, too many children are eating unhealthy foods, and too many families are left confused about nutrition or unable to access a wholesome diet. 

Research at the Lawson Centre for Child Nutrition provides the evidence and focus we need to improve child nutrition, in Canada and around the world.

Our scientists bring diverse expertise to child health. They also have strong connections to global networks of other scientists, clinicians, policymakers, politicians, government and NGO workers, and the private sector. 

A partnership with the Parkdale Queen West Community Health Centre to investigate opportunities to increase access to skilled lactation support. 

Feeding Kids, Nourishing Minds

A series of studies that provides a comprehensive overview of school meal and snack programs in Canada to inform the development and implementation of the National School Food Policy. 

Our scientists are exploring relationships between food policy and nutrition, at home and abroad.

Professor Elena Comelli is discovering new links between the gut, good health and chronic disease.

Patient-oriented research led by paediatrician and scientist Jonathon Maguire.

Mar 3, 2026
A team led by researchers at the University of Toronto has found an association between ultra-processed foods in early childhood, and behavioural and emotional development. Specifically, the team found that higher ultra-processed food consumption is linked to behavioural and emotional difficulties including anxiety, fearfulness, aggression or hyperactivity.
Feb 2, 2026
University of Toronto researchers are calling for more study of obesity, gut bacteria and metabolic conditions that arise in childhood and adolescence, with an eye to curbing the global rise of type 2 diabetes.
Dec 16, 2025
A new and flexible education program in child nutrition is providing up-to-date scientific evidence and practical guidance for health-care providers, enabling them to effectively address the challenging nutritional issues they see in their paediatric patients.
Oct 30, 2025
The University of Toronto’s Food as Medicine Update, a continuing education symposium for health-care providers, will run on November 13 with a focus on obesity.
Oct 22, 2025
University of Toronto Professors Mary L’Abbé and Bernard Zinman have been inducted into Canadian Medical Hall of Fame for 2026.
Jun 27, 2025
Nicole Weber and Nina Trask are researchers with Feeding Kids, Nourishing Minds, a series of studies on school food programs led by the University of Toronto. Their recent work highlights benefits and challenges of these programs, and offers insight on how a national, coordinated approach can improve program delivery.