Origins and Purpose of the Food and Nutrition Bulletin (FNB)
The Food and Nutrition Bulletin (FNB) was established in 1978 by Dr. Nevin S. Scrimshaw and became an official publication of the United Nations World Hunger Programme. It later became associated with the Nevin Scrimshaw International Nutrition Foundation. The journal aims to disseminate scientific research, policy analysis, and reviews on human nutrition, focusing on hunger and malnutrition in developing countries to inform policy and interventions.
The Role and Scope of FNB in Global Nutrition
As a peer-reviewed academic journal, the FNB ensures high scientific standards. Published quarterly by SAGE Publications, it offers a platform for global researchers, academics, and policymakers. Topics covered relate to nutrition in developing countries, including:
- Undernutrition and Malnutrition
- Micronutrient Deficiencies
- Food Safety and Security
- Nutrition Policy
- Dietary Intake and Assessment
The journal encourages submissions from emerging and developing-world researchers, promoting diverse perspectives and research in affected regions.
Comparison: FNB vs. Other Nutrition Journals
The FNB's focus on developing countries and policy distinguishes it from other nutrition journals. The table below highlights its unique position.
| Feature | Food and Nutrition Bulletin (FNB) | Journal of Nutrition (JN) | American Journal of Clinical Nutrition (AJCN) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Primary Focus | Global nutrition and malnutrition in developing countries. | Broader, general nutrition research; human and clinical studies. | Clinical and translational research related to human nutrition. |
| Policy Emphasis | High emphasis on nutrition policy and public health interventions. | Moderate, with more focus on foundational science. | Low, mostly focused on the clinical applications of nutrition. |
| Geographic Scope | Strong focus on low- and middle-income countries. | Global, but with a significant focus on research from high-income countries. | Global, heavily featuring research from Western nations. |
| Peer-Review | Yes, fully peer-reviewed. | Yes, fully peer-reviewed. | Yes, fully peer-reviewed. |
| Publisher | SAGE Publications (for the International Nutrition Foundation). | Oxford University Press (for the American Society for Nutrition). | Oxford University Press (for the American Society for Nutrition). |
| Founding Context | Official publication of the UN World Hunger Programme. | Long-standing journal from a professional society. | Flagship journal of the American Society for Nutrition. |
The Impact and Audience of the FNB
The FNB is a crucial resource for researchers, academics, government officials, and NGO workers. Its content helps develop evidence-based interventions and policies to improve global public health, influencing programs combating undernutrition, food insecurity, and micronutrient deficiencies. By featuring research from developing countries, the FNB facilitates knowledge transfer and South-South cooperation.
The Publication Process and Access
The FNB is published quarterly by SAGE Publications. Manuscripts undergo a rigorous peer-review process. Print and online editions are available, and some content is open-access. Submission and access information is available on the SAGE Publishing website.
Future Direction and Continuing Relevance
The FNB remains highly relevant due to global challenges like climate change and economic instability. It addresses emerging issues such as the double burden of malnutrition and the link between food systems and environmental sustainability. Its commitment to rigorous research on vulnerable populations maintains its authoritative standing in global nutrition and public health.
Conclusion
The Food and Nutrition Bulletin is a vital platform for advancing global nutrition understanding and practice. Since 1978, it has disseminated research and policy analysis on hunger and malnutrition in developing countries. Its peer-review process, diverse authorship, and policy-relevant focus make it an essential resource for those working towards a healthier, food-secure world. The FNB continues to lead in addressing critical global nutritional challenges.
Key Takeaways
- Founded by Dr. Nevin S. Scrimshaw: Established in 1978, initially linked to the UN World Hunger Programme.
- Global Nutrition Focus: Specializes in research and policy analysis on nutrition challenges in developing countries.
- Published by SAGE Publications: Published quarterly on behalf of the Nevin Scrimshaw International Nutrition Foundation.
- Addresses Malnutrition in all its Forms: Covers undernutrition, micronutrient deficiencies, and evolving dietary patterns.
- Supports Capacity Building: Encourages articles from emerging researchers from developing countries.
- Peer-Reviewed Authority: Fully peer-reviewed, ensuring scientific rigor.
- Informs Global Policy: Research influences nutrition policy and public health interventions.
