View the CNPP Annual Report 2002 (PDF)
View the CNPP Strategic Plan 2002-07
(PDF 43 KB)
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.
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