A food and nutrition program is a multifaceted field that deals with the nutrients in foods, their functions in the human body, and how people eat and how their diets affect their health. It also examines how dietary intake, health and nutrition status are affected by culture, ethnicity and religion.
A major in food and nutrition prepares you for a variety of careers in the food industry, as a registered dietitian, or to become part of the community food system. You’ll focus on a comprehensive study of the sciences and develop communication, problem-solving and teamwork skills.
Students learn how to promote optimal nutrition and wellness to individuals and groups, and gain a global perspective on food systems and the food industry. The Food and Nutrition major offers an 18-hour minor, and you can complete a 300-hour internship to gain practical experience in your field before graduating.
The University’s food and nutrition program is part of the School of Urban Public Health. It is committed to promoting the nutritional well-being of people and communities, through teaching, research and service.
Food Assistance and Programs
The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) administers domestic nutrition assistance programs that provide help for one in six Americans. They help low-income individuals, families and children to eat nutritious meals and reduce hunger.
These programs provide a safety net for the hungry and include SNAP, CalFresh, WIC, and a variety of farmer assistance authorities. They also help America’s farmers by providing a market outlet for their products.
Those who are eligible for these programs are given electronic benefits that can be used to purchase food at grocery stores, restaurants and other food providers. Eligibility is based on income, family size and other factors.
Many programs are designed to address specific nutritional needs, such as those for infants, children and elderly. Other programs are more general in scope, including the National School Lunch Program and the Summer Food Service Program, which helps provide meals to low-income children during the summer months.
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program/Food Stamps
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) is the largest component of the federal hunger safety net. It provides benefits to millions of eligible people in the form of electronic benefits that can be used to purchase food.
This program is funded by the federal government and administered by New York State. It is available to low-income individuals and families, the elderly, and those with disabilities. SNAP benefits are issued through the Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance and can be used at any retailer that accepts SNAP.
Seniors’ Commodity Supplemental Food Program/Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program
The New York State Department of Health operates the Commodity Supplemental Food Program to help low-income seniors in New York City and Long Island afford healthy, nutritious foods that support their well-being. CSFP participants receive additional benefits for purchasing fresh fruits and vegetables at local farmers markets.
The program also serves as a link between the Department of Health and the community, as it provides education and training to community agencies and organizations about food and nutrition. Moreover, the program supports the development of new and innovative approaches to nutrition education, and it provides a platform for nutrition-related research and scholarship.