Local company gives OHSU $25M to focus on improving nutrition

By Bill Roberson, KATU.com Published: Sep 16, 2011 at 2:25 PM PDT Last Updated: Sep 16, 2011 at 2:56 PM PDT
Local company gives OHSU $25M to focus on improving nutrition
Bob Moore had his 81st birthday in 2010 and celebrated by transferring his business to his employees. His internationally successful whole-grain production business mills grains, operates a retail store and restaurant and ships products internationally from the big, bright-red building in Milwaukie just off Oregon 224. Moore stands in his retail store on Feb. 16, 2010. (AP Photo/Doug Beghtel - The Oregonian)

PORTLAND, Ore. - The founders of a local natural foods business say they have pledged to give Oregon Health & Sciences University $25 million to study poor nutrition.

The huge scope of the gift from Bob And Charlee Moore, founders of Bob's Red Mill Natural Foods, is expected to focus on finding ways to improve nutrition for the malnourished in the U.S. and around the world.

“The Moores’ passion and common-sense philosophy about better health through wholesome foods aligns perfectly with OHSU’s mission to create a healthier world for future generations,” OHSU President Joe Robertson, M.D., said Friday at a morning new conference. “The partnership made possible by their philanthropy will be a vehicle for those positive changes, and we are profoundly grateful.”

Bob’s Red Mill Natural Foods, a Milwaukie, Ore.-based maker of whole grains, was started in 1978 with the mission of increasing the American diet's share of whole grains, high-fiber and complex carbohydrates.

Bob's Red Mill makes over 400 products that have international distribution deals. Bob and Charlee Moore also operate and fund the Institute for Nutrition and Wellness.

“Charlee and I have always been inspired by challenge,” said Bob Moore. “I can’t think of a tougher challenge than changing people’s behavior when it comes to their diets, so I feel very inspired to be part of this institute.

The Moores have a history of giving. In 2010, they stunned their 200 employess by actually giving them the company.

Bob Moore has also been honored as a KATU Everyday Hero.