22-5 |
The food industry's role in diet and health: Using technology, education, and policy to meet consumer needs and demands |
R. S. APPLEBAUM, PH.D. and R. Earl. Scientific & Regulatory Affairs, National Food Processors Association, 1350 I St. N.W., Ste. 300, Washington, DC 20005 The food industry's primary role is to produce safe and wholesome foods. Providing consumers with a wide variety of foods designed to meet their needs as well as their demands is also a high priority. This is no easy task. In an era where attention to diet and health is at an all-time high, the food industry must deliver foods that not only meet consumers basic nutritional requirements, but also their demands for products that taste good, are safe, nutritious, convenient, and of good value. Consequently, the food industry consistently takes proactive steps in the three key areas identified (technology, education and policy) to provide consumers with the products they need and want, and the information necessary to make sound and educated food choices and dietary decisions. The role of the food industry regarding diet and health, the use of science in decision making and advocacy, issues related to food product development, support for and promotion of information and educational activities, and principles of dietary guidance and nutrition recommendations to help consumers achieve healthful weights and lifestyles will be discussed.
Session 22, The politics of obesity
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