The Root of the Problem

Sorry, I missed this somehow.

Report Faults Food Group’s Sponsor Ties

A new report by a public health advocate criticizes the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, a trade group presenting some 74,000 dietitians, for allowing corporate sponsorships of its organization.

The report, by Michele Simon, a lawyer who specializes in legal issues involving the food industry, raises questions about the role big food companies play in the continuing education of the nation’s nutrition experts and the ability of the group to challenge the industry on matters of health and nutrition.

Among her findings were
-The number of food companies and trade groups that are paid sponsors of the academy more than tripled between 2001 and 2011 — to 38, from 10 — and that roughly 23 percent of about 300 speakers at its annual meeting had undisclosed financial ties to the food industry.
-Registered dietitians can earn continuing education units from Coca-Cola, in which they learn that sugar is not a problem for children.

Sadly, this is amusing-

Margo Wootan, an academy member who is director of nutrition policy at the Center for Science in the Public Interest, said leadership and other changes the organization had made had helped curb the influence of companies. “Ten years ago, the academy was really very closely tied to the food and beverage industry,” Ms. Wootan said. “But they really have cleaned up their act.” 

Foxes.  Henhouses.   Whaddya gonna do?
More fruits and grains for everyone!!