Mission

The objects of the International Union of Nutritional Sciences are:

a.) to promote advancement in nutrition science, research and development through international cooperation at the global level;

b.) to encourage communication and collaboration among nutrition scientists as well as to disseminate information in nutritional sciences through modern communication technology.

History of IUNS

The proposal to form the International Union of Nutritional Sciences was first discussed in July 1946 in London, where a meeting had been convened by the British Nutrition Society. This meeting was attended by 22 research workers from 13 countries. Two years later, a meeting of an International Provisional Committee was held with sessions in London on 10 and 11 June 1948. Statutes and bylaws were discussed, and the principal objects of the Union were defined as: a) the exchange of information, b) the organization of international congresses, c) the publication of the results of scientific investigation.

A small Executive Committee was appointed, and Professor E.J. Bigwood (Belgium) was elected Chairperson, and Dr. Leslie J. Harris (UK) Secretary General.

Since then the Union has grown steadily. At first the holding of the congresses was its main task, but, in the course of the years, other equally important activities have developed which need long-term planning and efficient administration.

The work of the Union is directed by the General Assembly, which meets at the time of the international congresses. The General Assembly, consisting of delegates appointed by the Adhering Bodies, is the highest authority of the Union, and the Council serves as an executive group between the meetings of the Assembly.

The number of the delegates from the Adhering Body depends on the membership category which the Body has chosen. Members adhere to the Union through National Academies or other appropriate scientific groups.

At present, the Union has 79 full members plus 1 in observer status, and 15 affiliated bodies (see below).

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