Testimonies and articles, letters, and statements from a congressional hearing of the U.S. Senate concerning nutrition education in medical schools are presented. The hearing was held to ascertain the present status of nutrition instruction in U.S. medical schools, to determine the need for such instruction, and to identify problems with implementation. Opening statements of Senators Henry Bellmon and Bob Dole are followed by statements of educators and experts. Aaron M. Altschul offers a concept of nutrition education, and Charles E. Butterworth addresses hospital malnutrition and nutrition education. Robert B. Wilson covers the following areas: animal products as food supply, the role of the veterinarian in maintaining the supply of food for people, the relationship between nutritional diseases and animal production, and the state of nutritional education in veterinary schools. John Sandson discusses why nutrition in many medical schools has been poor, and Eleanor A. Young reviews the study of nutrition at the University of Texas Health Center in San Antonio. Jack Metcoff addresses objectives and strategies of pursuing nutrition education, and Jack Rutledge discusses nutrition education from the perspective of a medical student. William D. Holden speaks about examinations and the role of the National Board of Medical Examiners. Additional comments, a study on hospital malnutrition, and supplementary materials are included. (SW)