Initiatives at the National Institute of Health and Nutrition, National Institutes of Biomedical Innovation, Health and Nutrition (NIBN): Collaborative research project among industry, academia, and government for promoting healthy food environments

Abstract

Since fiscal year 2023, the National Institutes of Biomedical Innovation, Health and Nutrition (NIBN) has been implementing the “Collaborative Project among Industry, Academia, and Government for Promoting Healthy Food Environments.” Currently, the project is being carried out in cooperation with eight companies. The objective of this project is to promote the development of an effective and sustainable food environment through research and surveys related to nutrition and dietary habits in collaboration with industry, academia, and government. This initiative aims to improve and enhance public health and thereby contribute to the advancement of national health. To date, efforts have included the development of a database compiling nutritional information on processed foods and recipes, the modification of a Nutrient Profile Model for dishes in Japan, the proposal of a model for a naturally health-promoting food environment, and the estimation of future public health and economic impacts through the promotion of healthy eating—backed by scientific evidence. Currently, following publication of the Nutrient Profile Model in Japan in September 2024, studies are underway to validate and implement it in society. Research to further improve the model itself is also ongoing. By integrating these efforts with the outcomes of this project, we aim to promote improvements in food and dish offerings by food businesses and enhance consumer access to healthier food options. In this manner, we are striving to contribute to the development of a naturally health-promoting food environment, fulfilling our role as a national center for research in health and nutrition policy.