Rose, D., Heller, M. C., & Roberto, C. A. (2019). Position of the Society for Nutrition Education and Behavior: The Importance of Including Environmental Sustainability in Dietary Guidance. Journal of Nutrition Education and Behavior, 51(1), 3-15.e1. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jneb.2018.07.006
Abstract:
It is the position of the Society for Nutrition Education and Behavior that environmental sustainability should be inherent in dietary guidance, whether working with individuals or groups about their dietary choices or in setting national dietary guidance. Improving the nutritional health of a population is a long-term goal that requires ensuring the long-term sustainability of the food system.
Current environmental trends, including those related to climate change, biodiversity loss, land degradation, water shortages, and water pollution, threaten long-term food security and are caused in part by current diets and agricultural practices. Addressing these problems while producing more food for a growing population will require changes to current food systems.
Dietary choices have a significant role in contributing to environmental impacts, which could be lessened by consuming fewer overconsumed animal products and more plant-based foods while reducing excess energy intake and the amount of food wasted. Discussion of sustainability within governmental dietary guidance is common in many countries, is consistent with previous US guidelines, and is within the scope of authorizing legislation. Dietary choices are a personal matter, but many American consumers are motivated by a concern for the environment and would welcome sound advice from credentialed nutrition professionals.
More opportunities are needed for developing such interdisciplinary knowledge among nutritionists.
About the Society for Nutrition Education and Behavior (SNEB)
The Society for Nutrition Education and Behavior (SNEB) represents the unique professional interests of nutrition educators worldwide. SNEB is dedicated to promoting effective nutrition education and healthy behavior through research, policy, and practice and has a vision of healthy communities, food systems, and behaviors. SNEB is an international community of professionals actively involved in nutrition education and health promotion. Their work takes place in colleges, universities and schools, government agencies, cooperative extension, communications and public relations firms, the food industry, voluntary and service organizations, and with other reliable places of nutrition and health education information.
- SNEB Vision: People worldwide empowered by food and nutrition education to change behavior, food systems, and policy.
- SNEB Mission: The Society for Nutrition Education and Behavior advances food and nutrition education research, practice, and policy that promote equity and support public and planetary health.
SNEB has an External Funding Policy based on its vision and mission there they strive to secure contributions from a variety of donors and provide opportunities for sharing diverse perspectives. In addition, SNEB and SNEBF will actively seek contributions from donors that are aligned with our mission.
SNEB has a Division of Sustainable Food Systems (DSFS) whose mission is to promote food systems that are environmentally sound, socially just, economically viable and produce quality food. The division supports leadership in advocacy, education and research through communications and networking among division members and with individuals and organizations in the public at large. Become a member via SNEB and/or connect with DSFS on Facebook.
SNEB’s Healthy Meeting Guidelines were adopted by members in September 2014. To the extent that funding and staff resources are available and the item is logistically feasible, SNEB incorporates these guidelines into its meetings. SNEB’s goal is to fulfil at least 80% of the guidelines for each meeting. General Recommendations are are follows, for the full guidance use the link.
- Support healthier choices, provide leadership and role modeling, and help to create a social norm around
healthier choices and behaviors. - Place healthier foods and beverages in prominent positions, where they are most likely to be seen and more
likely to be chosen. - Offer nutritious food and beverage options.
- Provide reasonable portions of foods and beverages (i.e., avoid large portions).
- Ensure healthier options are attractively presented, appealing, and taste good.
- If appropriate/possible, post calories at conferences and meetings.
- Offer physical activity opportunities that are relevant to the audience and environment to help people achieve
at least 30 minutes of physical activity each day. - Prioritize sustainable practices when possible, by minimizing waste, encouraging recycling, and sourcing
products from sustainable producers. - Evaluate efforts to hold healthy meetings and conferences and make adjustments over time to continue to
improve the acceptability and healthfulness of choices.
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