Interaction of the food industry with the academic community

Research performed by LJ Filer, Jr, MD, PhD, and his colleagues has resulted in an extensive number of publications elucidating the pharmacologic effects and biochemical fate of numerous food components and additives. This research carried out at the University of Iowa and elsewhere has provided important data on amino acids, methylxanthines, and peptides, especially when such compounds are used as food additives. Needs and suggested tactics for designing, funding, and completing food safety research are discussed. Industry must obtain reliable, high quality information regarding the safety of food additives if it is to respond to persistent consumer concerns over food and food additive safety.