A new organization
has been set up to help communicate information about nutrition and food
safety issues.
Known as the Asian
Food Information Centre (AFIC), the organization opened its first office
in Singapore
in July.
AFIC is a non-profit
organization which covers the entire Asian region. Its mission is to
serve as a link in relaying science-based information between the
scientific community, health professionals, government agencies, food
manufacturers and the media.
“New research is
reported almost daily in the area of food safety, nutrition and diet,”
said Julie Howden, Executive Director of AFIC. “The sheer volume of the
information available, together with its technical nature, can make it
difficult for the media and health professional to keep abreast of the
latest scientific information. AFIC will help to meet their needs.”
Supported by a
number of leading food and beverage companies, AFIC employs a team of
scientific, nutrition and communications professionals to manage its
programs. Publications include this quarterly newsletter, Food Facts
Asia, and a variety of brochures and articles. In addition, AFIC will
organize seminars and workshops on topical issues in food and nutrition
for health professionals, the media and educators. AFIC will also serve
as a resource centre for information on food issues for health
professionals, the media and consumers.