Chairman's Introduction
Dr Ann Prentice
OBE PhD
The Scientific Advisory Committee on Nutrition (SACN) is an advisory Committee of independent experts that provides advice to the Public Health England as well as other government agencies and Departments. Its remit includes matters concerning nutrient content of individual foods, advice on diet and the nutritional status of people.
Members are appointed as independent scientific experts on the basis of their specific skills and knowledge. There are also two members to represent consumers.
Members are required to conduct themselves in accordance with the Code of Conduct for Scientific Advisory Committees. Individuals are required to declare conflicts of interest and during discussions they may be disqualified at the Chairman's discretion from contributing to the conclusions and recommendations of the Committee.
The SACN is supported in its work by a secretariat provided by the Public Health England. The secretariat has scientific expertise that enables them to provide members with comprehensive background information and briefing papers to inform the decision making processes of the Committee.