Book excerpt: Abstract: An overview of progress in coordinating Federal nutrition research efforts and identifying areas in need of improvement are provided. Much progress has been made within and among Federal human nutrition research departments and agencies since Congress called for improved coordination in the Food and Agriculture Act of 1977. It is recommended that such coordination efforts continue and that agencies and departments plan their research efforts in conjunction with other Federal supporters of nutrition research to avoid duplication or inadequate coverage. The director of the Office of Science and Technology Policy should direct the Joint Subcommittee on Human Nutrition Research to develop a Federal nutrition research plan with input from agencies and departments which engage in human nutrition research. (ds)