FARE and National Peanut Board Collaborate with $2.5 Million for Food Allergy Research Fund
In a groundbreaking step for food allergy research, FARE (Food Allergy Research & Education) has announced a $2.5 million investment from the National Peanut Board (NPB). This funding aims to bolster research and advocacy for food allergy challenges faced by millions, especially in the United States. The National Peanut Board has a deep history of commitment to addressing peanut allergies, investing over $43 million in related initiatives over the last two decades. With this new collaboration, the organizations focus on advancing FARE's Mind Meld initiative, which adopts a collaborative approach to accelerate research efforts and ultimately cure food allergies.
FARE, as a leading charity in the food allergy community, emphasizes the importance of innovative research and collective effort. It has crafted this initiative under the leadership of CEO Dr. Sung Poblete, who previously showcased similar collaborative strategies during her time at Stand Up To Cancer. The Mind Meld initiative intends to effectively connect leading scientists in immunology to spearhead the development of treatments that could retrain the immune system, ensuring it no longer reacts negatively to food proteins.
Dr. Poblete expressed, "Food allergy is a serious, life-threatening disease impacting over 33 million Americans. Through collaborations like Mind Meld, we aim to translate laboratory research into practical solutions for those affected." This methodology is reminiscent of advancements in cancer research, where collaborative efforts have brought about significant breakthroughs.
Ryan Lepicier, the President and CEO of the National Peanut Board, affirmed the need for continued innovation in food allergy research. He expressed confidence that leveraging a cooperative framework with FARE's initiative would facilitate further breakthroughs. Notably, the NPB has already witnessed success with evidence-based practices for early introduction to peanuts, showcasing the potential impact of preventive strategies.
As part of the ongoing collaboration, FARE is expected to release a Request for Proposals (RFP) to engage researchers interested in this crucial area later this year. The ultimate objective of this joint venture is to develop new strategies and methodologies that will enable a better understanding of food allergies, facilitating paths toward their effective treatment or eradication.
Both organizations believe that the synergy created by this partnership will harness the strengths and resources of multiple stakeholders across the food allergy research landscape. They look forward to attracting other entities within the food system to participate in this vital pursuit, which could potentially improve the lives of millions coping with food allergies.
This collaborative effort reaffirms the commitment of FARE and the National Peanut Board to advocate for better research, educational outreach, and practical solutions to food allergies, ensuring that the dialogue leads to real change and hope for those affected by these conditions. By advancing research today, they set the stage for a future where food allergies can be managed effectively or even cured, reflecting a significant step forward in public health and safety.