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The 4th WIA International Conference on Iodine in Food Systems and Health convenes a diverse group of stakeholders, including scientists, public health experts, policymakers, healthcare providers, industry actors, and civil society organizations, to address the ongoing challenge of iodine deficiency in Europe. Although iodine deficiency disorders (IDD) are preventable, recent evidence suggests that a substantial proportion of the European population, particularly newborns, adolescents, and women of reproductive age, remain at risk due to insufficient iodine intake and low public awareness. 

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A central pillar of the conference is the presentation of results from the EUthyroid2 project, a Horizon Europe-funded initiative designed to improve awareness, strengthen the scientific evidence base, and implement targeted interventions addressing iodine deficiency. Drawing on implementation studies and randomized controlled trials conducted in educational and healthcare settings across eight European regions, the project provides critical insights into effective strategies for improving iodine nutrition and reducing health inequalities.

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The conference will also emphasize the importance of a coordinated, multi-stakeholder approaches through the work of Iodine Coalition Europe. By aligning research, public health practice, patient advocacy, and industry engagement, this initiative aims to advance sustainable prevention of IDD in Europe via a favorable European policy framework. Discussions will examine current EU and national policies, identify legislative and market barriers, and explore opportunities for harmonizing the relevant policy framework, particularly in relation to salt iodization and dietary iodine recommendations.

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In addition, the conference will address the evolving policy landscape, highlighting the need for a balanced and science-based classification of iodine as an essential nutrient. Participants will consider how the misclassification of iodine could undermine public health efforts and create uncertainty around iodine fortification strategies. Emphasis will be placed on risk-benefit and dose-based approaches to ensure that safety frameworks support, rather than hinder, adequate iodine intake. 

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Scientific sessions will further explore emerging research on iodine nutrition in humans and animals, including dietary assessments, supplementation trials, and population monitoring. The potential of biofortification to enhance iodine content in food systems will be discussed as a sustainable and scalable solution. These insights will inform the development of updates nutritional guidelines and evidence-based public health interventions. 

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The conference will conclude by evaluating key findings and identifying priority actions to protect and promote adequate iodine nutrition for all Europeans. By fostering dialogue, strengthening partnerships, and translating science into policy and practice, the event aims to promote collective action to tackle iodine deficiency and improve population health outcomes across Europe.