Notes from the Scientific Department

VRG In the News

The national media continues to contact VRG for help with numerous vegetarian-related stories. Nutrition Advisor Reed Mangels, PhD, RD, was interviewed by Newsday, CBS radio news, and the John and Ken radio show in Los Angeles for stories about vegan diets for infants. Reed was also interviewed by ABC news on the challenges of raising a vegan child. Nutrition Advisor Suzanne Havala Hobbs, DrPH, RD, was interviewed by The New York Times Magazine, the Baltimore Sun, and AARP's publication, My Generation, for stories about raw foods diets. She was also interviewed by the Washington Post concerning the national school lunch program, by Vibrant Health for a story about vitamin B12 and vegetarian diets, and by the Canadian magazine Chatelaine for a piece on food myths.

Northern Illinois University Sponsors “The Vegetarian Alternative&lrquo;

VRG Nutrition Advisor Suzanne Havala Hobbs presented a lecture on “The Vegetarian Alternative&lrquo; to approximately 60 students, faculty, and the general public at Northern Illinois University in DeKalb on April 21, 2002. Samples of Vegetarian Journal and other educational materials were distributed.

VRG Supports Inclusion of Soymilk in School Meals

The USDA Special Nutrition Program is taking public comments concerning the potential inclusion of soymilk and other nondairy alternatives to cow's milk in school meals. The VRG submitted a letter in support of these options.

Federal Child Nutrition Programs to be Reauthorized This Year

Congress is scheduled to reauthorize child nutrition legislation this year, and the USDA has solicited comments from the public concerning suggested changes. The VRG offered comments on the health of participants, issues of access, and the integrity of child nutrition programs.