The May-June 2020 issue of Cereal Foods World explores health and nutrition, focusing on the role of food in maintaining health and assisting in the treatment of a variety of health conditions. The authors offer perspectives on food as medicine and recommendations for inclusion of grains in the diet; overviews on the function and benefits of prebiotics and dietary fiber in the diet; and insights into efforts to breed grains with improved nutrition. Also included are articles discussing the need for harmonization of food health claims and how the vital role of grains in a health-promoting diet can effectively be communicated to consumers.

In 1826, Jean Anthèlme Brillat-Savarin wrote, “Tell me what you eat and I will tell you what you are.” At the time, he was referring to the esoteric relationship between food choices and the state of one’s mind and health. In the 1920s the quote was shortened when it appeared in English and read as, “You are what you eat.” Although not as erudite as Brillat-Savarin’s original statement, the English translation was intended to point out the profound effect food has on our physical health and well-being.

Coincidentally, we all find ourselves in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, and there is more a heightened need to keep both our minds and our bodies healthy. Fittingly, this issue of Cereal Foods World is focused on the topic of “Food as Medicine,” with an emphasis on cereals and grains. We trust you will find the articles contained herein to be informative and interesting.

With that, we would like to say, “Eat well, stay healthy, and may the remainder of 2020 bring some happiness to all!”