Articles

As a retail dietitian, there are multiple benefits to paying attention to these headlines – you’ll see what your executives see and can provide your take on industry movements, you’re positioned to ask for new program funding based on marketing dollars being allocated to projects at other retailers, or you may be able to expand your program based on new roles at other retailers.

Like many registered dietitians, I never expected there would be a time in my career when I would be called upon to answer wellness-related questions about shampoo, lotion, or soap. But given the recent surge in consumer concern over topical product chemicals, we’re the most readily accessible resource for our retailers and shoppers, so it’s no surprise that these inquiries are now falling on our desks.

Self-reflection involves setting aside time to give serious thought to your goals, performance and overall state of mind. Studies show that self-reflection, in the form of meditation or otherwise, is a powerful method to reduce stress and enable individuals to make better business decisions. Here are some simple steps you can follow to help you reflect and advance self-development:

Many of the topics presented in May at the Retail Dietitian Exchange have relevancy for a broad audience within the profession, and RDBA is pleased to announce that two of the event sessions are now available on video. Descriptions of and access to the videos are provided here:

As retailer’s expand their grocerant options, dietitians are developing and taking on culinary roles at retail. This provides insight from a panel of retail RDs who are working on culinary initiatives.  Panelists include Ashley Martinez, MFN, RD, LD, Kroger Health, Jessica Seigel, MPH, RD, Gelson’s Markets, Shelbi Thurau, RD, Wakefern Food Corp, and Emily Parent, RD, LD, Coborn’s. Moderated by Phil Lempert.

Technology is impacting the retail industry in ways we never dreamed – from farm to form, it’s impacting the way shoppers are choosing their foods and retailers are communicating. This one-on-one discussion with Phil Lempert and Sylvain Perrier will explore real examples of how retailers are utilizing block chain, artificial intelligence, machine learning, robotics and the next evolution of e-commerce and delivery as well as their impacts and opportunities for retail dietitians.  

In December of last year, with the signage of the Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018 (Farm Bill), hemp was removed from the Controlled Substance Act, meaning it is no longer considered an illegal substance under federal law. This opened the flood gates, and at Expo West in March, many products containing CBD derived from hemp, were showcased in the expo hall.

For almost half of all shoppers who are following or shopping for someone adhering to a specific dietary plan, transparency is particularly important. From low carb, to high protein and gluten-free, it is imperative to help these individuals overcome the challenge of searching for products that meet the needs and goals for their diet or health-related program. The study also identified those platforms considered the most valuable by consumers for communicating transparency:

There may not be a hotter topic for retail dietitians than return on investment. Being able to calculate a positive ROI and presenting the findings to senior retail leadership are essential to show the value of RD services, gain approval for new programs, and support additional RD head count. Read on for tips for developing and communicating ROI here.

We’ve all heard the saying, “two is better than one.” Turns out this has proven true in the retail space as well. Pairing nutrient-rich foods in a retail promotion, such as good fats from walnuts (2.5g/oz omega-3 ALA) with an array of nutrients from fresh produce, not only shows shoppers how to enjoy nutritious foods, but can provide value from a business standpoint, too.