Food science and cooperative extension: a view of the past and a vision for the 21st century

Abstract The next century will offer challenges and opportunities to all of humanity as the rate of technological change increases. Since all of humanity must eat to survive, food will continue to play a central role in our lives, even as the technological changes take place. Unique challenges concerning the food supply will face us in the next century. The Cooperative Extension Service of the US Department of Agriculture can help to bring together food scientists, food producers and consumers to face these challenges.