Sustainability and Food Systems Concepts in Dietetic Training Standards in Speaking Spanish Countries

Abstract

Introduction: Global calls for action to support sustainable development through food systems and nutrition provide context to examine to what degree nutrition and dietetics professionals are equipped for this challenge. The purpose of this research is to investigate content related to sustainable food systems in training standards from Spanish-speaking countries and examine what level of knowledge is required. Methods: Researchers conducted a content analysis of documents informing nutrition and dietetics training standards for content related to sustainable food systems, including dimensions of these complex topics. Relevant content was then analyzed according to the level of cognitive complexity per Bloom's Revised Taxonomy. Results: Of 21 eligible countries, documents describing competencies, standards or codes of ethics were found for six, four of which included relevant standards: Colombia, Mexico, Paraguay, and Peru. Overall, there was minimal comprehensive inclusion of sustainable food systems, but partial inclusion of one or more important sustainability dimensions. These were required at a mix of levels of cognitive complexity. Conclusions: This research adds to a small body of evidence documenting the state of readiness of nutrition and dietetics professionals to contribute to sustainable development. It highlights a moderate level of readiness in four Spanish-speaking countries, and opportunities for increased emphasis on comprehensive sustainability-informed education and training standards, which can help prepare practitioners for effective practice. Funding: MITACS Global Research Internship.