Activities

This 3-year initiative is built on 3 sequential steps (see diagram at the bottom of this page for an overview):

Step 1: Review of existing criteria

In step 1, two approaches were applied: 

In “approach A,” an expert group identified evidence-based criteria for selecting adequate markers through a comprehensive literature review. 

In parallel, a series of expert groups formed from existing ILSI Europe Task Forces carried out “approach B.” Under this approach, the expert groups created a list of broadly used markers in their field of nutrition research. They evaluated these markers and thereby identified a list of criteria for selecting adequate markers.
 
Step 2: Defining consensus criteria

With the inputs of both approach A and approach B, the aim is to identify criteria for selecting adequate markers in nutrition research . In order to ensure the application of the best science and a thorough review of the preparatory work produced, a workshop  was organized by ILSI Europe, aiming to achieve the following objectives:

• To obtain consensus on the criteria for evaluating markers in nutrition research;
• To initiate the development of guidance on how to use the consensus criteria.

The workshop was organised by ILSI Europe on 27-29 June 2012 in Lisbon, Portugal.

Step 3: Application of consensus criteria 
 
The last step consists in the evaluation of the applicability of the consensus criteria. These criteria will be applied to the commonly used markers, as defined in approach B of step 1 (or other if relevant), as proof of concept. This will lead to the identification of markers that comply with the criteria for each specific domain of research (cognition, cardiovascular health, etc.).
We also expect to identify some research needs and gaps to fill. The output of this initiative will be published in a supplement of a peer-reviewed journal.