Look no further than the field of food science to see what a distorting force industry funding of scientific research can be. If it weren't for grape juice producers or nut growers eager to boost sales, for example, it's a pretty safe bet that studies claiming Concord grape juice can help improve brain function and walnuts can reduce the risk for diabetes would never see the light of day.
Nutrition isn't the only area of science with a problem. From medicines and medical devices to weight loss aids and sugary drinks, researchers have found that studies supported by industry are more likely to return results that are favorable to the funder. With all the discretionary decisions that go into designing, conducting, and interpreting research, this isn't entirely surprising.
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