Registered Dietitian Nutritionist Day, celebrated during National Nutrition Month and led by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, highlights the vital role RDNs play across the food industry in improving health and well-being through food, nutrition expertise and collaboration.
By: Krystal Register, MS, RDN, LDN, Vice President, Health & Well-being, FMI
Just in case it doesn't pop up automatically on your March calendar, a quick reminder that Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) Day falls on the second Wednesday in March as part of National Nutrition Month®. This celebratory day is part of the greater monthly long initiative created and driven by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. The goal of RDN Day is to “increase awareness of registered dietitian nutritionists as the indispensable providers of food and nutrition services and recognize RDNs for their commitment to helping people enjoy healthy lives,” as noted on the Academy website. Of course, it is also a day to celebrate any and all RDNs in your circle of life!
My husband once asked me, “is this a flowers kind of celebration day, or should we go out to dinner?” Honestly, I see it as a day to celebrate my registered dietitian friends and colleagues who have truly dedicated their lives to helping others; who are passionate about health; and, who truly LOVE food!
From my perspective, it is amazing to see how RDNs across the food industry hold crucial leadership positions, driving strategic initiatives that truly impact shopper behavior, choice and ultimately health. In our recent FMI Food Industry Contributions to Health & Well-being we share insights on how RDNs are immersed in roles such as personal counseling, food safety, employee health, digital merchandising, labeling compliance, communications, and product development, just to name a few. RDNs are collaborating with executive leaders, pharmacists, culinary teams, community-based organizations, local healthcare providers and consumers from coast to coast.
As a registered dietitian for nearly 30 years, it is incredibly humbling to be part of a profession that works to support the Academy's mission to “accelerate improvements in global health and well-being through food and nutrition.” It is my pleasure to work with and support RDNs working across the entire food industry, laser-focused on that very same mission. Today we celebrate all of the passionate, caring nutrition professionals connecting people to food and nutrition for better health and well-being.
Learn more about RDN Day and National Nutrition Month®
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