Accelerate the use of molecular genetics to modify performance and improve composition of animals and animal products. Determine the interrelationships between animal genetics and the environment to improve production. Next Generation of Foods Food Safety Integrated Pest Management Global Competitiveness Impact Consumers will benefit from research in this area by having desirable, high quality animal food products. Quality will be determined by nutritive value, relative composition of fat and lean, and freedom from microbial and chemical contamination. These efforts will provide additional knowledge of nutrient value of animal food products, provide a better understanding of quality improvement, and provide methods to preserve and enhance these products during production, processing, and storage.
Objectives Identify relative nutrient values and quality.
Establish the biochemical and cellular relationship between animal products and human nutrition and health. Understanding this relationship will enhance the nutritive value and quality of animal products. Define mechanisms controlling composition. Determine the genetic, cellular, and physiological basis for controlling the nutrient composition of food animals and products. Improve animal product safety.