The Art of the Gluten-Free Cookie

On May 6, 2026, the Nutrition and Dietetics Department at Tishk International University successfully completed the second of its specialized 6-week training course. This week’s session was dedicated to the science and craft of Gluten-Free Cookies, drawing a diverse crowd of  students and health conscious members of the general public as well as the staff.

The program continues to thrive under the coordination of  Dr.Pary Ameer, Ms. Amani Tahsin and Ms. Alla Fars, focusing on providing practical  solutions for those living with dietary restrictions.

Celiac Disease & Gluten Sensitivity

The session was led by guest expert Bushra Idris Surchi, who provided a comprehensive lecture on the medical necessity of gluten-free diets. She detailed the clinical differences between Celiac Disease and Gluten Sensitivity, emphasizing how proper culinary techniques can significantly improve the quality of life for those affected.

Session Week Primary Topic Guest Speaker
Week 2 Gluten-Free Cookie Art & Nutrition Bushra Idris Surchi
Focus Celiac Disease & Practical Baking Clinical & Culinary Mastery

Practical Session: Mastering the Perfect GF Cookie

The highlight of the day was the practical hands-on workshop. Under the guidance of Bushra Idris Surchi, participants moved into the department’s laboratories to learn the secrets of gluten-free baking. They focused on achieving the perfect texture and flavor for Gluten-Free Cookies, proving that health-conscious treats can be just as delicious as traditional ones.

Activity Educational Purpose Outcome
Hands-on Cookie Baking Learning to work with alternative flour blends Mastery of GF dough consistency
Safety Protocols Understanding cross-contamination in the kitchen Confidence in preparing medical-grade snacks

A Community Mission

By opening the 2nd week of the GF training course to the public, the Nutrition and Dietetics Department continues to foster a culture of wellness in Erbil. This initiative highlights the department’s commitment to Public Empowerment by Giving everyone the skills to bake safely for their familieS and Specialized Nutrition by leading the way in “Culinary Medicine” and dietary art. The success of the “Cookie Week” has participants eagerly looking forward to the next stage of the 6-week journey.