7 U.S.C. § 3172: Duties of Secretary of Agriculture

In order to carry out the policy of this subchapter, the Secretary shall develop and implement a national food and human nutrition research and extension program that shall include, but not be limited to—(1) research on human nutritional requirements; (2) research on the nutrient composition of foods and the effects of agricultural practices, handling, food processing, and cooking on the nutrients they contain; (3) surveillance of the nutritional benefits provided to participants in the food programs administered by the Department of Agriculture; (4) research on the factors affecting food preference and habits; and (5) the development of techniques and equipment to assist consumers in the home or in institutions in selecting food that supplies a nutritionally adequate diet.