The name of the laboratory comes from the etymology of the word Gusto, which derives from the Latin gustus (taste). It is related to the Greek verb geuso (to taste; γεύσω) and refers to enthusiasm, pleasure, good spirits, and cheerfulness. Borrowed from the Italian gusto (“taste”), it shares its root with gustar in Spanish, gustation in English, and “goût” in French.
Gusto Lab aims to advance knowledge and tools to optimize food literacy skills of people with disabilities by promoting their active participation in meal preparation and consumption within their budget—whether in rehabilitation centers, at home, or in the community.
Our objective is to contribute to improving support services and reducing long-term food insecurity for people with disabilities.
Specifically, we aim to:
Gusto Lab is an inclusive research environment that values diverse backgrounds and the active inclusion of people with disabilities—both within the team and in its collaborations and projects.
Recognizing experiential knowledge enriches research perspectives, stimulates scientific innovation, and helps build a work environment based on collaboration, listening, and inclusion. This approach fosters a more representative, engaged, and socially connected scientific community.
The Gusto Lab team also plays an active role in training future researchers, a true driver of innovation. Through involvement in multidisciplinary projects grounded in clinical practice, students develop the competencies needed to become the next generation of rehabilitation professionals—engaged, creative, and attuned to societal needs.
After their time in the lab, our postdoctoral researchers, PhD students, Master’s students, interns, volunteers, and team members go on to careers in rehabilitation, obtain professional degrees, or pursue academic paths.
For more information about our team, please visit the Team page.
