Reimagining the Role of the Registered Dietitian Nutritionist in Food Pantry Sites and Settings

Top Things to Know

RDNs can significantly impact food insecurity by providing culturally relevant nutrition education and supporting food pantry initiatives.

 There is a need for enhanced training and partnerships with charitable food organizations to better prepare RDNs for addressing food insecurity.

RDNs should engage in advocacy and policy efforts to address systemic issues and promote sustainable food access.

Summary of Conclusion/Findings

The review discussed the increasing importance of food pantries in addressing food insecurity, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic and rising food prices. It highlights the role of Registered Dietitian Nutritionists (RDNs) in food pantries, emphasizing their potential to provide culturally relevant nutrition education and support pantry initiatives across various levels of the social ecological model (SEM). The review identifies gaps in RDN training and suggests that dietetics programs should include partnerships with charitable food organizations to better prepare future RDNs. It also underscores the need for RDNs to engage in advocacy and policy efforts to address systemic issues contributing to food insecurity. The review concludes that coordinated efforts across multiple layers of the SEM are essential for sustainable and equitable food access.