EXPERTS TO DISCUSS SAFETY, REGULATION OF GENETICALLY ENGINEERED FOODS DURING OHSU CONFERENCE

What: Corn that resists insects, soybeans that tolerate herbicides and fish engineered to grow at more than twice the normal rate are just a few examples of the farming advancements made possible through food science research. However, some critics claim that science is moving too fast and question the safety of these enhanced foods. Opinions from both sides of this debate can be heard during a conference at Oregon Health Sciences University called "Biotech - Foods of the 21st Century." The event will feature speakers from OHSU, food experts from across the country and a representative from the Food and Drug Administration. The OHSU/Veterans Affairs Medical Center Dietetic Internship Program is sponsoring the program.

When: Friday, May 19, 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Where: OHSU Auditorium, 3181 S.W. Sam Jackson Park Road, Portland

Featured speakers:

• Alan Bennett is a public affairs specialist with the Food and Drug Administration. Bennett also serves on the FDA Public Affairs Executive Council.
• Eric Sachs, Ph.D., is from Monsanto Company, a life sciences company looking for solutions to the growing food needs around the globe through science and technology.
• Susan Roberts, M.S., R.D., L.D., is president of Sue Roberts Health Concepts Inc., an organization dedicated to a holistic view towards health and nutrition. Roberts also is chairwoman-elect of the Environmental Nutrition Practice Group of the American Dietetic Association.
• Diane Stadler, Ph.D., R.D., L.D., is a research assistant professor and bionutritionist at OHSU's General Clinical Research Center. Stadler will act as moderator for the event.

Editors: Please call Jim Newman in University News and Publications at (503) 494-8231 if you are planning to attend.