German minister establishes nutrition research hub

Dubbed a ‘networking office,’ the scheme looks to support of those involved in the nutrition research landscape in Germany that promotes communication and cooperation.

"By pooling and networking existing expertise from all over Germany, we are increasing our power of nutrition research - both nationally and internationally - which is crucial in order to promote a healthy diet at every age level,” ​says Klöckner, the agriculture minister since March 2018.

“For example, how and when a particular eating behaviour contributes to the development of dementia, and solid scientific evidence is the basis for making politically sound decisions."​

Research & policy interface ​

Panned to begin in autumn 2020, the hope is the hub can become an interface between nutrition research and nutrition policy, says the federal ministry of food and agriculture.

Advice and information on promotional announcements in the field of nutrition science, will also be available as will the creation of a digital nutrition research ‘atlas’ for the clear presentation of national research activities in the field of nutrition research.

The networking office is being formed in cooperation with the Max Rubner Institute (MRI), which were exhibiting at the International Green Week 2020 in Berlin this week​.​

The Institute were discussing the issue of reformulation and nutrition labelling, where representatives were on hand to show attendees how best to reduce sugar, fat and salt intake.

NutriScore system​

Creation of the hub comes after Klöckner’s announcement last month of her intentions to back the controversial NutriScore system as in an effort by the country to establish a national voluntary food labelling scheme next year.

After a heated debate about clearer labelling of sugar, fat and salt contents in food, Klöckner announced the Nutriscore model should be used to display the nutritional value of food.

Klöckner said the model itself will not solve the overweight problem, but it could make ‘a healthy choice the easy choice’.