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Nutritionists and Dietitians as Key Actors in Local Food Systems: A Systems-Based Social Network Analysis
Suzy Pickles1, Anita Stefoska-Needham2, Katherine Cullerton3
1Faculty of Science, Medicine and Health, School of Medical, Indigenous and Health Sciences, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, New South Wales, Australia.
Summary
Nutritionists and dietitians are well-connected among themselves but not integrated into the wider local food network. Increased participation in collaborative food initiatives could enhance their contribution to sustainable food systems.
Area of Science:
- Food Systems Science
- Nutrition and Dietetics
- Social Network Analysis
Background:
- Nutritionists and dietitians are crucial for sustainable food systems but their role in local alternative food networks is unclear.
- These professionals can leverage food, nutrition, and health expertise to promote sustainable diets and transform food systems.
- This study investigates their connectivity within a peri-urban Australian local food system.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the role and connectivity of nutritionists and dietitians within a local food system.
- To understand their potential contribution to sustainable and transformative food practices.
- To identify opportunities for greater integration and impact.
Main Methods:
- Social Network Analysis (SNA) was employed to map relationships and attributes.
- Key metrics calculated include in-degree centrality, betweenness centrality, density, path length, and community structure.
- Analysis focused on a peri-urban Australian food network.
Main Results:
- 23 nutritionists and dietitians were identified within a network of 242 actors.
- They showed strong internal connections but limited integration with other network actors.
- While personal sustainability practices (home gardening, local food sourcing) were common, collaborative participation (community gardens, crop swaps) was low.
Conclusions:
- The limited integration of nutritionists and dietitians presents opportunities for enhanced contributions to local food system transformation.
- Greater engagement in collaborative, place-based food activities can foster systems-based practice and cross-sector relationships.
- Organizational support is crucial for strengthening their collective impact on local food environments.
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