The California Walnut Commission’s Scientific Advisory Council just celebrated its 20th Anniversary. As a result of the health research program and input from our SAC members, over 165 manuscripts have been published.
The California Walnut Commission Scientific Advisory Council (CWC SAC) was established in 1995 under the direction of Dennis A. Balint. Eleven members who work in various areas of health research, scientific communications, academia and nutrition currently serve on the council. The California Walnut Commission established and implemented a health research program more than 20 years ago with oversight from the scientific and academic community. As a result of the health research program and continuous input from our SAC members and others, over 165 manuscripts have been published in peer-reviewed journals supporting the growing body of scientific evidence on walnut consumption and diet, health promotion and disease reduction. Additionally, hundreds of presentations, posters, abstracts, panel discussions and roundtables have been given around the world at professional meetings sharing walnut health research.
In 2015, the CWC SAC meeting was held in July bringing together over two dozen researchers, scientists and clinicians from around the world to discuss short and long-term goals to continue to advance research about the health benefits of walnuts. Updates on current studies along with open forum dialogs regarding topical issues such as gut health and nutritional epidemiology were shared. This important meeting provides insight and direction for the CWC health research program strategic plan.
As part of the meeting, Jack Mariani, CWC Market Development Committee Chairman, surprised Dennis with a tribute acknowledging his foresight in creating the Scientific Advisory Council (SAC) 20 years ago and highlighting accomplishments over the years. “Without a doubt, one thing that everyone agrees on is that inception of this committee and the work it has done over the last 20 years has been one of the most important strategies for the California Walnut Board,” Mr. Mariani shared. Additionally, the Scientific Research Award has been renamed the Dennis A. Balint Award for Excellence in Scientific Research.
Mr. Balint graciously accepted the tribute by saying, “Teamwork is what made this possible.” He thanked the Board and Commission for their support of his efforts as well, “I have the greatest board members you could ask for. They’re supportive and talk about foresight, they know when things have to get done.”
The legacy of the Scientific Advisory Council, which was created by Mr. Balint, will always be a huge contribution to the success of the walnut industry.
