Nutrition programs through public health centers in Korea

In the period of confusion after the Korean War, there was an absolute shortage in the volume of food. The intake of energy and all other nutrients fell short of the recommended dietary intake. To solve the food shortage, there were many food assistant programs through the government channel. With the economic developments during past years, now, there are enough foods for everyone. Thus, food assistant program, which has been the only nutrition program in the government, is no longer needed except for low-income families. Currently, there are not enough nutrition programs in the government. In 1994, about 30 public health center start nutrition programs with the help of Korean Dietetic Association. In this study, kinds of nutrition programs, age, sex and number of participants, the content of programs are studied. The effects of nutrition programs are partially evaluated. Also, problems with current nutrition programs are discussed. Finally, future directions of nutrition programs in the public health centers are discussed.