The OTA (Office of Technology Assessment) reports that the Federal Government has failed to adjust the emphasis of its human nutrition research activities to deal with changing U.S. health problems. Three key issues in changing policy are: 1) maintain the status quo; 2) make small alterations in the system; or 3) change the emphasis of federally fundednutrition research based on OTA, General Accounting Office (GAO) or Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP) recommendations for strategies and options. Each strategy details research priorities, definition and funding, personnel requirements and proposed research organization. More information is needed on Federal expenditures and available personnel. Provision must be made for public nutrition education and food programs that emphasize the application of existing knowledge.

Abstract: An overview of progress in coordinating Federal nutrition research efforts and identifying areas in need of improvement are provided. Much progress has been made within and among Federal human nutrition research departments and agencies since Congress called for improved coordination in the Food and Agriculture Act of 1977. It is recommended that such coordination efforts continue and that agencies and departments plan their research efforts in conjunction with other Federal supporters of nutrition research to avoid duplication or inadequate coverage. The director of the Office of Science and Technology Policy should direct the Joint Subcommittee on Human Nutrition Research to develop a Federal nutrition research plan with input from agencies and departments which engage in human nutrition research. (ds)

Questions and answers concerning HHS and USDA, and 1982 e valuation report of clinical nutrition research units, are appended.