National Nutrition Month

March is National Nutrition Month, when the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics reminds everyone to return to the basics of healthy eating. It is also the time of year when the Academy celebrates expertise of registered dietitian nutritionists as the food and nutrition experts.

National Nutrition Month^® is a nutrition education and information campaign created annually in March by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. The campaign focuses attention on the importance of making informed food choices and developing sound eating and physical activity habits. In addition, National Nutrition Month^® promotes the Academy and its members to the public and the media as the most valuable and credible source of timely, scientifically-based food and nutrition information.

Registered Dietitian Nutritionist Day, also celebrated in March, increases awareness of registered dietitian nutritionists as the indispensable providers of food and nutrition services and recognizes RDNs for their commitment to helping people enjoy healthy lives.

2016 National Nutrition Month Theme

The theme for 2016 is “Savor the Flavor of Eating Right,” which encourages everyone to take time to enjoy food traditions and appreciate the pleasures, great flavors and social experiences food can add to our lives. How, when, why and where we eat are just as important as what we eat. Develop a mindful eating pattern that includes nutritious and flavorful foods — that’s the best way to savor the flavor of eating right!

For merchandise to celebrate, visit the National Nutrition Month^® online catalog.

History

Initiated in March 1973 as a week-long event, “National Nutrition Week” became a month-long observance in 1980 in response to growing public interest in nutrition. Read more in the article, “National Nutrition Month: A Brief History.”

National Nutrition Month Sponsor

The Academy’s mission is to promote optimal nutrition and well being for all people by advocating for its members. With more than 75,000 members, the Academy is the world’s largest organization of food and nutrition professionals. The majority of the Academy’s members are registered dietitian nutritionists and dietetic technicians, registered.

Service Mark

National Nutrition Month^® is the property of the Academy. Its use is encouraged, but only in accordance with the Academy’s published guidelines. Unauthorized use is strictly prohibited.

Themes of the New Millennium

With the first “National Nutrition Week” in 1973, it was embraced by members of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics as a way to deliver nutrition education messages to the public while promoting the profession of dietetics. In 1980, the week-long celebration expanded to become National Nutrition Month^®. Over the years, the theme has reflected trends and culture of the time, but has always remained true to its original purpose: “To increase the public’s awareness of the importance of good nutrition and position Academy members as the authorities in nutrition.”

For More Information

NNM inquiries should be directed to nnm@eatright.org. For media related information contact Public Relations at 312/899-4802 or 4769 or media@eatright.org.