Research, extension and higher education in human nutrition

Abstract: The Committee on Human Nutrition of the Joint Council of Food and Agriculture addressed 3 aspects of research, extension, and higher education programs: an inventory of work underway; identification of program gaps; and specification of coordination needs. FY 1978 work inventory was based on 386 human nutrition-related projects having available expenditure data; FY 1979 Federal funding for Extension included a work equivalent of almost 5400 workyears; and about 40 students per year received a Ph. D. in nutrition and food science between 1971-75. Identified gaps include: nutrition effects on mental and physical development; methodology in every area of nutrition research; use of mass media; and nutrition programs for low-income urban families. Recommendations to the Joint Council included: data base development for planning coordinated nutrition research, extension, and education programs; provide adequate attention to long-term human nutrition program needs; request actions to secure funds forstrengthening university research and training; and designate the USDA Human Nutrition Center as the focus for nutrtion information and education program coordination. (wz