Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics

Error creating thumbnail:

The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics (AND) is the largest organization of food and nutrition professionals in the United States. It was founded in 1917 and is headquartered in Chicago, Illinois. The Academy is committed to improving the nation's health and advancing the profession of dietetics through research, education, and advocacy.

History

The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics was originally established as the American Dietetic Association (ADA) by a group of women dedicated to helping the government conserve food and improve public health during World War I. The organization changed its name to the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics in 2012 to better reflect its mission and vision.

Mission and Vision

The mission of the Academy is to "accelerate improvements in global health and well-being through food and nutrition." The vision is to create a world where all people thrive through the transformative power of food and nutrition.

Membership

The Academy has over 100,000 members, including registered dietitian nutritionists (RDNs), dietetic technician, registered (DTRs), and other professionals holding undergraduate and advanced degrees in nutrition and dietetics. Members work in various settings, including hospitals, schools, public health organizations, and private practice.

Education and Certification

The Academy provides resources for continuing education and professional development. It also oversees the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR), which administers credentialing exams for RDNs and DTRs. The Academy's accreditation arm, the Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics (ACEND), accredits education programs that prepare students for careers in dietetics.

Publications and Resources

The Academy publishes several professional journals, including the Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. It also offers a variety of resources for both professionals and the public, such as nutrition fact sheets, position papers, and practice guidelines.

Advocacy and Public Policy

The Academy actively engages in advocacy efforts to influence public policy related to food, nutrition, and health. It works with lawmakers, regulatory agencies, and other organizations to promote policies that support the profession and improve public health.

Annual Meeting

The Academy hosts an annual meeting known as the Food & Nutrition Conference & Expo (FNCE), which is the world's largest meeting of food and nutrition experts. The conference features educational sessions, networking opportunities, and an expo showcasing the latest products and services in the field.

See Also

• Registered dietitian nutritionist
• Dietetic technician, registered
• Nutrition
• Public health
• Food & Nutrition Conference & Expo