Economic and financial section > Problem of nutrition

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of national products, the knowledge of which is becoming gradually
more complete, and also carry out researches to serve as the basis of
technical improvements for the benefit of the whole community.
The Laboratory has already published data connected with experiments
concerning “ Poisonous Varieties of Mushrooms in Uruguay ”, the
“ Influence of Vitamin A on the Growth of the Fur of White Rats ”,
the “ Action of Diphtheria Toxin on Vitamin C of the Tissues ”,
" Hypervitaminosis A ”, the “ Pathology of Equine Scurvy ”, the
“ Vitamin C Content of Foodstuffs in Uruguay ”, “ Vitamin C in the
Diet of Infants ”.
It is intended to publish during the year a first series of results obtained
in connection with the " Chemical Composition of Foodstuffs ”. The
Laboratory will continue its research work in the various branches of
experimental dietetics, in particular “ Vitamins ”, “ Avitaminosis ”,
“ Flu crisis ”, the “ PH of the Soil and Vegetable Growth ”, the
” Nutrient Value of Cereals and Native Vegetables ”, etc. The plan
to attach an experimental kitchen to the Laboratory as an important
adjunct to dietetical research will also be carried out this year. At
present, consideration is being given to the possibility of using the
technical services of the Agronomic Section of the Ministry of Public
Health with a view to improving equipment and alimentary products
in public health establishments.
Education.
Educational propaganda has been conducted with a view to inculcating
into the population definite ideas on a properly balanced dietary and the
necessity for consuming, in addition to protein foods, such as meat—of
which the country has ample supplies—also vegetables, fruits, etc.
The propaganda pamphlets issued by the Commission for Rational
Nutrition and the important nutrition exhibitions and various series
of lectures which are broadcast every year throughout the country are
of importance in this connection.
In 1935, the Official Broadcasting Service organised two series of
lectures on modern problems connected with the nutrition of infants
and schoolchildren, the role played by fruits and vegetables in human
nutrition, the pasteurising and hygienic preservation of milk, nutrition
and physical development, etc.
In educational circles, future schoolmistresses are required under
the regulations to follow a course of domestic economy, which includes
theoretical and practical lessons on the composition of foodstuffs and
their preparation ; these courses are given by trained teachers. Lessons
on the preparation and food value of a standard bill of fare are also
included in the curriculum of a number of private schools.
The School of Rational and Economic Dietetics gives mothers
theoretical and practical training in the preparation of foodstuffs and
their composition at the milk dispensaries in various parts of the capital ;