Whilst our primary publication targets are refereed high quality journals, the Institute of Food Research actively tries to reach a wider audience. An article in the current issue of Biological Sciences Review, a magazine for 16-18 year old science students, is a typical example.

In the article, Professor Sue Fairweather-Tait and Dr Linda Harvey, introduce work on minerals and bioavailability. As well as defining bioavailability, they tabulate recommended mineral intakes (RNI) in the UK and discuss how mineral absorption is measured. Research work on iron, selenium and copper is used to illustrate the ways in which biological knowledge is being used in our society, for both the individual and the community.

"At IFR we are committed to providing interested groups with relevant and understandable examples of how science makes a difference to our lives." said Helen Penny, Science Communication Officer.

Minerals and bioavailability by Linda Harvey and Sue Fairweather-Tait (2000) Biological Sciences Review 12 (5) 38-40

• The mission of the Institute of Food Research is to carry out independent basic, and strategic research on food safety, quality, nutrition and health. It is a company limited by guarantee, with charitable status, grant aided by the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC). The Institute is based on the Norwich Research Park.
• ISDN Audio available.