For your practice: Help your clients adopt sustainable food habits

CHOOSE WORDS WISELY

Words matter! When you talk about sustainable eating, ask your clients what they understand this to mean. For example, as dietitians, we may use the term “plant-based” when we talk about enjoying plant foods such as vegetables, whole grains or legumes more often.  While we don’t mean to suggest people eliminate animal foods altogether from their diet, according to recent consumer research, when Canadians hear the term “plant-based diet,” nearly 50% believe that means eating only plant foods (i.e., vegan).¹

FOCUS ON FOOD WASTE

Offer practical ways to avoid food waste: plan meals and shop at home first, buy just what you need, store food properly and freeze extras. With budget being top of mind for many Canadians, make your tips even more relevant by linking reduced food waste to money saved. The average Canadian household wastes about 140 kg of food per year, which adds up to over $1,300 per year!²

TAKE A POSITIVE APPROACH

Encourage clients to add in nutrient-rich foods rather than focusing on cutting out food choices. Share easy, economical, and culturally inclusive meal and snack ideas that include nutrient-rich foods, minimally processed ingredients. Provide personalized advice that considers mindful eating habits and foods in portions that satisfy both hunger and nutrient needs.

CONSIDER LOCAL FOODS

Share recipes and shopping tips that include, as much as possible, foods grown and produced in Canada. Provide suggestions for choosing sustainable alternatives when local or in-season options aren’t available, such as locally grown canned or frozen vegetables.