ALL FOR THE FRONT, ALL FOR THE VICTORY: FOOD ON THE FRONT AND IN THE REAR

Abstract

This article describes in detail the scientific developments during the war years aimed at ensuring adequate nutrition at the front and in the rear. It addresses the challenges of food delivery to the front (most of the country's agricultural sector was occupied by the enemy), and the organization of sanitary, hygienic, and anti-epidemic measures at the front line and in the rear. It describes nutritional standards for hospitals and Red Army units, as well as food packages for various population groups, including teenagers working in factories. It describes measures to prevent mass illnesses and avitaminosis, particularly in active combat units, and care for the wounded and convalescents in hospitals. A tribute is paid to the memory of the soldiers who worked at the Institute of Nutrition, including its directors, who participated in the Great Patriotic War. Pointing to the inextricable link between generations and the need to foster patriotism using the heroes of those years as examples, the article discusses the current system of scientific research, the need to restore the domestic food biotechnology industry to ensure Russia's food security, and other pressing areas, such as developing diets for the civilian population that take modern challenges into account, for cosmonauts, and other groups.