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MUSC dietetic interns develop culinary skills  To develop culinary skills and to become acquainted with chefs, MUSC's dietetic interns work in the food labs of Johnson and Wales University, Charleston campus. Culinary skills are essential for registered dietitians. As people increasingly appreciate that the nutrients they need are in food, dietitians with culinary skills are able to help their clients prepare foods that contribute to health. Also there are more opportunities for dietitians to assert themselves in roles on teams that include chefs. Therefore it is important for dietitians to become sensitive to the contributions chefs bring to teams. During the experience at Johnson and Wales, the interns change recipes to make them healthier and tastier. Chef Donna Blanchard supervises the activity. As they work beside the interns, Johnson and Wales students give them culinary tips. With faculty and students participating, the dietetic interns conduct a sensory analysis of the completed food product.  Preceptor Mary Etta Moorachian, Ph.D, R.D., developed and supervises this internship experience. Sponsored by the Department of Medicine, the dietetic internship is a post-baccalaureate, experienced-base program designed to prepare dietetic students for entry level practice as registered dietitians. For information, call Joanne Milkereit at 792-1454.