Nopal is a Mexican dietary product derived from cactus. It contains a different mix of fibre, 2/3rds of which is insoluble like bran fibre and 1/3rd soluble like psyllium. It is the subject of several health claims. The investigating group has recently been awarded a grant by the Newton Fund, through the Medical Research council, to study its effects on gut function. The aim of the Newton Fund is to stimulate collaborative research with middle-income countries such as Mexico. Part of the project plan is to invite a Mexican radiologist, Dr Alfonso Gil-Valadez, to Nottingham to learn about the MRI techniques used by our group.