Trust in Nutrition: Dietitians Lead in Consumer Confidence

Trust in Nutrition Professionals Rises Among Americans

In today's fast-paced world filled with ever-changing food trends and confusing nutritional advice, recent research unveils that Americans place their highest trust in registered dietitian nutritionists (RDNs). This insightful finding comes from a new report published by the International Food Information Council, highlighting the increasing value of science-based nutritional guidance.

The Role of Dietitians in Nutritional Guidance

During a key session at a major food and nutrition conference, insights from the 2025 IFIC Food & Health Survey were presented, which showed a notable demand for credible voices in food and nutrition. It indicated that a significant two-thirds of individuals tend to trust dietary advice more when it originates from a registered dietitian.

According to Wendy Reinhardt Kapsak, President & CEO of IFIC, “America is striving for healthier eating habits yet is bombarded with contradictory messages. This underlines the crucial role of science-backed communication from trained experts.”

Navigating the Nutrition Minefield

The 2025 IFIC Food & Health Survey indicates a growing uncertainty within the American population relating to food and nutrition. The survey reports that 80% of respondents find it challenging to discern trustworthy nutrition information due to its ever-evolving nature.

Remarkably, registered dietitian nutritionists continue to stand out as the most trusted sources for nutritional advice, with 71% of Americans expressing confidence in their recommendations. In stark contrast, trust levels drop significantly when it comes to influencers, with only 18% trusting podcasters and 16% social media personalities for food guidance.

Challenges of Misinformation in Nutrition

Despite the low trust in non-professionals, social media still holds substantial sway over food-related decisions. Among those who have encountered online food and nutrition content, 57% acknowledged that it motivated them to make healthier decisions. However, trust in online nutritional content has seen a significant decline, plummeting from 21% in 2023 to just 12% in 2025.

This disparity between exposure and trust presents a unique challenge but also an incredible opportunity. Reinhardt Kapsak emphasizes the critical moment for RDNs to thrive. “With the overwhelming amount of misleading nutrition information available, individuals are eager for trustworthy insights. It is now time for RDNs to step forward decisively, enlightening the public and helping them make choices grounded in scientific reasoning.”

A Platform for Change at FNCE® 2025

At the Food & Nutrition Conference & Expo (FNCE) 2025, IFIC unveiled two decades’ worth of food and nutrition insights from the survey. This year, FNCE is being held in Nashville, gathering nutrition professionals from all over the world.

Deanne Brandstetter, President of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, remarked that FNCE acts as a vital venue for transforming insights into meaningful action. “As trust in RDNs for nutritional advice continues to grow, this event presents unparalleled opportunities for collaboration and leading discussions on nutrition with clarity and compassion.”

Healthy Eating and Community Impact

Food choices affect numerous dimensions of life, influencing daily energy, family health, and community well-being. In an environment where many are overwhelmed by conflicting messages about food, public confidence in science—and particularly the individuals communicating that science—has never been more crucial.

Reinhardt Kapsak expressed appreciation to the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics for being a driving force in creating space for advancing discussions on nutrition and empowering individuals to make healthy, informed choices.

Insights from the 2025 IFIC Food & Health Survey

This year marks the 20th consecutive survey conducted by IFIC, collecting data from U.S. consumers to better understand their perceptions, beliefs, and actions related to food and purchasing. The survey data was meticulously weighted to represent the demographic diversity of the American population.

About the International Food Information Council (IFIC)

IFIC stands as a non-profit organization dedicated to conveying scientifically backed information regarding food safety, nutrition, and sustainable food systems. Its mission revolves around enhancing public understanding through rigorous research, insightful consumer data, and meaningful dialogue among stakeholders in the food and health sectors.

For additional details about the work of IFIC or to connect with them, please reach out to their media contact, Jenny Phillips, at 585.747.8717 or email at phillips@ific.org.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main focus of the 2025 IFIC Food & Health Survey?

The survey aims to understand American consumers' perceptions, beliefs, and behaviors regarding food and nutrition.

Who are the most trusted sources for nutritional advice among Americans?

Registered dietitian nutritionists (RDNs) are recognized as the most trusted sources for food guidance, with many consumers expressing high confidence in their advice.

How has the trust in online food content changed recently?

Trust in online food content has significantly decreased, dropping from 21% in 2023 to just 12% in 2025.

What challenges do consumers face in nutrition information?

Consumers struggle with misinformation, with 80% saying it's difficult to navigate trustworthy nutritional advice due to ever-changing information.

What does FNCE® stand for?

FNCE® stands for the Food & Nutrition Conference & Expo, the largest gathering for food and nutrition professionals worldwide.

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