This year 925 million people in the world will suffer from hunger and one-third of all child deaths will be related to malnutrition. With successful nutrition programs and policies, these numbers are going down; however, each region of the world has its own unique nutrition issues and circumstances.

To successfully reduce malnutrition in developing countries, a strong base in nutrition training along with an understanding of the culture and environment of the individual country is required. The solutions need to come not just from abroad but from within each country.

Mission

The mission of the INF is to build capacity in developing country individuals and institutions in the areas of nutrition research, policy and programming so they can effectively address issues of food, nutrition and hunger in their countries.

We accomplish this through three major activities: disbursing fellowships for nutrition education, communicating nutrition research, policy and programming in the Food and Nutrition Bulletin, and conducting nutrition research.

INF also strives to brings key nutrition issues to the attention of those with national and international responsibilities for policies and resource allocation and facilitates activities that bridge and shorten the nutrition research-policy-program cycle.

Vision

The INF works toward a future where the quantity and quality of food consumed does not constrain the achievement of full genetic potential of any individual or the economic and social progress of developing countries.

Principles

In support of this mission, the INF adheres to the following principles and orientations:

• Encourages development of a strong science base in support of effective research, policy and applied programs
• Focuses on underserved communities and vulnerable groups
• Works with people of all beliefs, races and national origins
• Uses a participatory, accountable and transparent governance structure
• Considers human rights orientations in addressing food and nutrition issues