oday’s statement of concern comes from Dietitians for Professional Integrity co-founder Alysa Bajenaru, RD, CPT (Twitter handle: @Alysa):
“I want to start by saying that I am FOR challenging the current sponsorship model because I am FOR dietitians. I have always been, and will always be a champion of my profession. Which is why I think some things need to change.
I would like to keep my statement brief because I think the matter is really very simple. These large food companies should have no influence over our profession whether actual or perceived. I have had to prove my professional integrity too many times by assuring and re-assuring clients that I do not promote hyper-processed foods even though my credential is tied to these companies.
And let me just say, this is not about being perfect. I certainly am not. This is also not about forcing unrealistic expectations on others. I meet clients where they are and guide them through whatever it is they are facing. This is about the ethics of tying our profession to an industry that keeps people in a perpetual state of sickness, and then is applauded when they offer up some kind of a health truce like adding sliced apples to their menu.
If AND is to continue to fight the good food fight for our country, we must do so in the best interest of the American people, not Big Food.”
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