No single role can be given precedence over another. U.S. agriculture must be highly competitive, not just in the domestic market, but in the global economy. U. S. farmers and agribusiness must be profitable and they must continue to improve their productivity. New trade channels must be developed to provide the markets for domestic products, and products must be developed that suit the changing demands of consumers. The American public is increasingly concerned about the safety and security of the food and fiber system.
Consumers worry about environmental factors related to foodborne disease.
In response, detection, surveillance and reporting of these diseases must be improved. The ultimate goal is the reduction and elimination of environmental risk factors that contribute to foodborne disease. It is essential that our food production, processing and distribution system remain secure. A healthy, well-nourished domestic and world population will be an objective as long as mankind inhabits the earth. In order to reach this goal, we must identify the nutritional needs of an ever changing population.