IPB University Researcher Presents at the World-Leading 18th International Hydrocolloids Conference (IHC 2026) in Tokyo

Tokyo, Japan — A lecturer from the Department of Aquatic Product Technology, Faculty of Fisheries and Marine Science, IPB University, Dr. Eng. Wahyu Ramadhan, S.Pi., M.Si., participated as an invited oral presenter at The 18th International Hydrocolloids Conference (IHC 2026) (https://18ihc.org/), held from March 31 to April 2, 2026, in Tokyo, Japan.

Recognized as one of the most prestigious global forums in hydrocolloid science, the conference brought together 219 participants from 34 countries, including leading scientists, keynote speakers, and editors of high-impact international journals as well as representatives from relevant food industries. Organized by the International Hydrocolloids Society and Japanese Society of Food Hydrocolloids (https://international-hydrocolloids-conference.com/), the conference carried the theme “Future Hydrocolloids for Sustainable Solutions in Food and Life Sciences,” covering key areas such as functional food design, bioactive polysaccharides, digestion behavior of biopolymers, and hydrocolloid applications in alternative proteins and health-related industries .

In this highly competitive international forum, Dr. Wahyu Ramadhan was the only representative from IPB University and Indonesia, delivering an oral presentation that had been officially accepted by the scientific committee . His presentation, entitled:

“High Internal Phase Emulsion of Sardine Oil Stabilized by Sodium Caseinate–Carrageenan Complexes: A Colloidal Approach to Omega-3 Enrichment in Freshwater Fish Surimi,”

highlighted innovative approaches in utilizing fish oil as a sustainable omega-3 source through advanced hydrocolloid-based multiphase systems. This research is part of IPB University’s ongoing work in aquatic biomaterials, colloidal and other multiphase systems, particularly within the development of hydrogel, oleogel, and high internal phase emulsion (HIPE) technologies.

Beyond presenting research findings, the conference served as a strategic platform for strengthening international academic networks and fostering future collaborations. Engagement with world-class experts and leading researchers in hydrocolloids and food biopolymers further reinforces IPB University’s role in advancing research on marine-based functional materials and sustainable food systems.

Participation in this international conference was supported through the EQUITY Program 2025/2026, funded by the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, and Technology (Kemdiktisaintek) and LPDP Indonesia, under the scheme “International Scientific Conference Presentation Support Program” coordinated by IPB Directorate of Global Connectivity. This initiative reflects a strong institutional commitment to enhancing global academic visibility and expanding international research collaboration.

Through this participation, THP FPIK IPB University continues to demonstrate its contribution to the global scientific community, particularly in the field of marine hydrocolloids and aquatic-based biomaterials, while promoting innovation toward sustainable and functional food solutions. This contribution also aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly in promoting responsible consumption and production (SDG 12) and advancing innovation in sustainable food systems (SDG 9 and SDG 2).