And the research system needs a regulatory climate that facilitates the development of new biotechnologies such as the inherited traits for resistance to pests. While the research needs for food science and technology are critical, it is important that strategic investment in food and fiber research be sustained across the entire spectrum of the agricultural system. Plant diseases require continued surveillance and investigation in order to prevent crop failures. Animal diseases and human pathogens transmitted by animal foods threaten food production and can lead to outbreaks of foodborne disease. Improved agronomic methods that protect soil, water and ecosystems need to be developed and adapted.
New pathogens emerge to challenge our best prevention and treatment strategies.
New technologies are demanded to reduce the likelihood of pathogen transmission by food, to improve the quality of processed foods, and to deliver greater nutritional value in foods. And innovative ideas are needed for adding value to raw commodities not only to benefit the competitiveness of American companies but also to create high value jobs. Research spans a continuum from new knowledge derived from basic research, to innovative processes and products developed from applied research. Fundamental science and the technologies and developments that spring from it are interdependent. Both types of research are needed.