Barbara Ann Underwood

Barbara Ann Underwood, a dedicated nutritional biochemist whose work transformed the fight against malnutrition across the globe, passed away on February 6, 2025, at the age of 90. Born in Tustin, California, on August 24, 1934, Barbara devoted her life to the study of food and nutrition, pioneering research in vitamin A, vitamin A dose response to measure deficiencies, and mother/child nursing studies, that improved the health of children in developing countries.

Barbara earned her Bachelor’s degree in Food & Nutrition Biochemistry from the University of California, Santa Barbara, in 1956. She then pursued her Master’s at Cornell University, graduating in 1958, before earning her Ph.D. in Nutritional Biochemistry from Columbia University in 1962. Her studies and career were fueled by a passion for addressing global malnutrition, particularly among children suffering from vitamin A deficiency and protein-energy malnutrition.

Her groundbreaking research led her to Jerusalem, Pakistan, India, Indonesia, Thailand, Brazil, Ecuador, and numerous countries in Africa, where she worked directly with communities to develop food-based solutions to micronutrient deficiencies. One of her proudest achievements was a field study in South India demonstrating that smaller, more frequent doses of vitamin A could significantly reduce childhood mortality—an insight that shaped international nutrition policies. She also championed biofortification as a sustainable approach to combating malnutrition, advocating for crops enriched with essential nutrients.

Barbara’s work was not just about research; it was about people. Her career was marked by compassion, humility, and a deep commitment to mentoring young scientists. She insisted on local academic partnerships during in-country research and worked diligently to assist their authorship of study results. She believed in the power of education and encouraged the next generation of nutritionists to follow their passions in pursuits of a healthier world. She was President of the International Union of Nutritional Sciences from 1997-2001 and received a “Lifetime Achievement Award” in 2009.

In her retirement years, Barbara became a devoted Bible scholar, following her deep love of the Scriptures and the person of Jesus. She developed a passion for hospice care, volunteering with Hospice of the Valley in Murrieta, CA, where she provided comfort and companionship to those in need. She was also an active and beloved member of her church community, always bringing a meal or dish to share—a simple yet heartfelt expression of her generous spirit.

She is survived by her brother, Dave Underwood, and remembered by colleagues, students, and the countless lives she touched through her dedication. Those who knew Barbara describe her as a servant leader—gracious, strong, independent, and always approachable. She lived with a giving spirit, leaving behind a legacy of care, impact, and scientific excellence.

Her contributions to the field of nutritional biochemistry will continue to inspire and guide future efforts in global health and nutrition.

Service Details

A celebration of Barbara’s life will be held at Fairhaven Memorial Park & Mortuary, 1702 Fairhaven Ave, Santa Ana, CA 92705, on the following schedule:

10:00 AM – Viewing

10:30 AM – Celebration of Life

The service will be available via live stream at the following URL: https://client.tribucast.com/tcid/c2502766595564

12:00 PM – Graveside Burial

A reception will follow at 2:00 PM at the Martinez home in Menifee, CA.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Hospice of the Valleys in Murrieta, CA in her honor. https://hospiceofthevalleys.org/