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Why do Registered Dietitian Nutritionists need a seat at every table?

  • Writer: Barbara J. Mayfield, MS, RDN, LD, FAND
    Barbara J. Mayfield, MS, RDN, LD, FAND
  • Mar 27
  • 2 min read
Logo for A Seat at Every Table over a faded photo of two women at a table.

When it comes to conversations about food and nutrition, Registered Dietitian Nutritionists are the trusted, evidence-based experts who can translate complex science into:

  • practical, real-life solutions for individuals of every age, culture, and health status,

  • sensible, science-based policies and guidelines for the public and public institutions, and

  • clear messages connecting consumers with agriculture and industry.


But only if we are invited to the “tables” where these conversations are taking place.

For this reason, the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics initiated a movement to get RDNs their rightful seat at every table where they are needed and belong. Read on to learn about this movement and what it offers to RDNs and the people we serve.


What is A Seat at Every Table?

“The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics’ A Seat at Every Table is a nationwide initiative that highlights the vital role of dietetics professionals in shaping nutrition decisions. Their expertise is essential — and deserves a seat at every table where health and nutrition decisions are made.” https://www.eatright.org/everytable

 

Why is A Seat at Every Table needed today?

“Americans are turning to unaccredited sources, social media, and AI-generated recommendations to guide their nutrition decisions — bypassing the professionals rigorously trained to provide accurate, science-based nutrition care,” according to a national survey commissioned by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.


Key Findings:

  • 56% of Americans turn to their own research to make decisions about food, often without the ability to distinguish credible sources from misinformation.

  • 86% of the public have never consulted a nutrition and dietetics professional at all. Only 7% can accurately describe what they do.

  • 46% of people have acted on tips from influencers, and one in four people rely on social media as their primary source of information.

Read all the survey results.

 

What does A Seat at Every Table offer RDNs and consumers?

This initiative has many resources for RDNs and consumers, with more coming.

Here is a sample of what you can access:

“As a registered dietitian, I’ve seen firsthand how powerful evidence-based nutrition can be — yet too many people are making decisions without access to credible guidance. Dietetics professionals bring the scientific rigor, clinical training, and compassion needed to help people cut through the noise and make nutrition choices that work in real life. ‘A Seat at Every Table’ ensures our expertise is not just available, but actively shaping the conversations that determine the health of our nation.” ~ Deanne Brandstetter, MBA, RDN, CDN, FAND 2025-2026 President of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics


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