Showcase of Health-Promoting Products
Wednesday, March 24, 2010
3:15 – 4:15 p.m.
- Diane Alexander, Ph.D., Technical Service Manager, Kemin Health
- Leslie Bonci, Ph.D., R.D., Director of Sports Nutrition, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center
- Ratna Mukherjea, Ph.D., Clinical Sciences Lead, Solae
- Robert Post, Ph.D., Deputy Director, USDA Center for Nutrition Policy and Promotion
- Rhonda Witwer, MBA , Senior Business Development Manager of Nutrition, National Starch Food Innovation
This informative, interactive session will begin with a brief discussion of the USDA Center for Nutrition Policy and Promotion, whose goals include the empowerment of consumers by enhancing their knowledge about the link between diet and health, as well as greater appreciation for dietary guidance that is based on research. In the spirit of linking scientific research to product claims, presenters will showcase health-promoting products by demonstrating their product’s applications, address the link between the product’s structure and function, and cite scientific references to substantiate product claims. Specific topics include the effect of soy protein in promoting satiety and weight management, the impact of cherries on muscle recovery and performance, lutein for eye and skin health benefits, and natural resistant starch for glycemic health and insulin sensitivity benefits. This session, including the Q&A segment, will deepen your understanding about healthful food decision making among consumers.
About the Speakers:
Dr. Diane Alexander is a technical service manager for Kemin Health in Des Moines, IA. Her work focuses on providing technical expertise on Kemin Health’s products, assisting prospective and current customers with developing product concepts, and overseeing trials to validate product efficacy. She received her bachelor’s degree in microbiology from Pennsylvania State University and her doctorate in microbiology from Washington University in Saint Louis.
Dr. Leslie Bonci is one of the country’s most recognized sports nutritionists, and is the director of sports medicine nutrition for the Department of Orthopedic Surgery and the Center for Sports Medicine at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center. She serves as the sports dietitian for the University of Pittsburgh’s Department of Athletics and is a nutrition consultant for the Pittsburgh Steelers, Pittsburgh Penguins, Pittsburgh Pirates, Pittsburgh Riverhounds professional soccer team, Cincinnati Reds, and Toronto Blue Jays. In addition, she is the company nutritionist for the Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre and a sports nutrition consultant to numerous high schools and universities. Dr. Bonci is also the consulting nutritionist for the U.S. Olympic Canoe and Kayak Team.
Dr. Ratna Mukherjea is the clinical sciences lead, Regulatory & Government Affairs, for Solae, LLC. She holds a doctorate degree in nutrition from the University of Maryland, and a postdoctorate degree in maternal nutrition from Western Human Nutrition Research Center, USDA Children’s Hospital Oakland Research Institute. Her expertise and experience is in designing, conducting, and managing multiple clinical studies. Dr. Mukherjea has taught nutrition at several universities and medical centers, and her work has been published in many abstracts.
Since June 2007, Dr. Robert C. Post has been the deputy director of the USDA’s Center for Nutrition Policy and Promotion (CNPP). He joined CNPP with over 25 years of experience in food and agriculture public policy, food production, nutritional science, food marketing, and public health communications and education. He is the senior administrative official in the agency and collaborates with the executive director in representing the department in matters related to nutrition policy and guidance. He holds a doctorate degrees in Public Health and Science Education Policy and Program Administration from the University of Maryland. Dr. Post has been awarded certificates of merit for his technical competence and leadership qualities in directing many vital USDA and inter-agency projects.
Rhonda S. Witwer is the senior business development manager of Nutrition for National Starch Food Innovation. She manages the business development for Hi-maize® resistant starch, Hi-maize whole grain flour, and Novelose® resistant starch, which are ingredients that are used in foods that are formulated for weight management, glycemic management, energy management, and digestive health. She served as chairman of the Executive Committee of the Nutrition Division of the Institute of Food Technologists, and has served on the Editorial Advisory Board of Nutraceuticals World magazine since its inception in 1998. Ms. Witwer holds a bachelor’s degree in chemistry from Butler University, and received her master’s degree in business administration from The Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania.