Dietetics and Social Problems

Abstract

THE problem to what extent a wise social policy, taking into account modern scientific developments in the field of nutrition, can help to raise the standard of living in certain countries, or for certain categories of population, which at present suffer from undernourishment or malnutrition, is being investigated by the International Labour Office, assisted by a Committee of Experts which met at Geneva on April 9–10. under the chairmanship of Mr. Bramsnaes. This committee discussed the efforts of the International Labour Office to demonstrate the progress of dietetic science and its importance in regard to social questions. Special stress was laid on the necessity of distinguishing between the physiological, health and social aspects of the problem, and it was agreed that the studies should be studied simultaneously in various countries according to a uniform plan which would assist international co-ordination of comparative results. The projected investigations are aimed at determining the relation between nutritional requirements and different occupations, the economic and social effects of different policies of improving the standard of nutrition of workers and their families, and at defining the principles on which the regulation of wages, where it exists, is based and methods of fixing benefits under social insurance or assistance schemes. Other studies will deal with the nutrition of apprentices and young persons and of the unemployed, etc.