The Center for Nutrition Policy and Promotion was created in the U.S. Department of Agriculture, December 1, 1994, and is the focal point within USDA where scientific research is linked with the nutritional needs of the American public.

The creation of the Center came at a time when the American public was becoming increasingly aware of the importance of diet, yet was receiving conflicting nutrition messages. The Center, therefore, serves as a touchstone where the public is assured that the nutrition guidance they receive is based on sound research and analysis.

The Center reports to the Office of the Under Secretary of Agriculture for Food, Nutrition and Consumer Services. The staff of the Center is composed primarily of nutritionists, nutrition scientists, and economists all of whom were chosen for their expertise.

The Center for Nutrition Policy and Promotion carries out its mission by:

• Developing and coordinating nutrition policy within the USDA
• Assessing the cost-effectiveness of government-sponsored nutrition programs on food consumption, food expenditures, food-related behavior, and nutritional status
• Preparing periodic updates on the cost of family food plans and of raising children
• Investigating techniques for effective nutrition communication for Americans
• Evaluating the Nutrient Content of the U.S. Food Supply. One of the government's longest running historical studies begun in 1909, it documents the amounts of nutrients which are available to American consumers.

The Center for Nutrition Policy and Promotion publishes the Family Economics and Nutrition Review; twice per year and is available by subscription. In addition, the Center publishes a variety of other dietary guidance materials for the general public and nutrition and health educators, as well as Expenditures on Children by Families.

In conjunction with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, the Center publishes the Dietary Guidelines for Americans. The Center also maintains and updates the Thrifty Food Plan, which serves as the nutritional basis for determination of Food Stamp Program benefits.

The Center for Nutrition Policy and Promotion is located at 3101 Park Center Drive, Rm. 1034, Alexandria, VA 22302-1594, Telephone (703) 305-7600, Fax (703) 305-3400.