Opinions of European Dietitians About Communications Promoting Healthy Eating: An International Comparative Study.

Background/

Objectives

Dietitians play a pivotal role in promoting healthy eating, yet their perspectives on effective communication channels and campaign priorities remain under-researched, particularly in cross-national contexts. This study compared European dietitians' opinions on communication channels and priority topics for healthy eating campaigns targeting different age groups.

Methods

A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 131 dietitians from Poland (n = 56), France (n = 36), the United Kingdom (n = 26), and Germany (n = 13). Participants rated the importance of 19 communication channels on a 5-point scale and selected three priority topics from 16 options for children, adults, and elderly populations. Data were analysed using one-way ANOVA with Bonferroni post-hoc tests and Chi-square tests (significance at p < 0.05).

Results

Interpersonal channels-dietitians' own recommendations (M = 4.10) and recommendations from family/friends (M = 4.02)-were rated the highest across all countries. Significant national differences emerged for digital channels: Polish dietitians rated social media the highest, while British dietitians were the most sceptical (apps: Poland 3.73 vs. UK 2.81, p < 0.001). Limiting processed foods (60.3%) and increasing fruit/vegetable consumption (59.5%) were top child priorities, with national variations for fast food (Poland 28.6% vs. France 5.6%, p = 0.006). For elderly populations, dietary diversity (49.6%) and fruit/vegetable intake (42.7%) led in terms of priorities; salt limitation was prioritised only in Poland (23.2%) and France (16.7%), p = 0.017.

Conclusions

While European dietitians agree on interpersonal communication and core nutritional messages, national contexts shape digital tool perceptions and campaign priorities. Culturally sensitive, targeted nutrition communication strategies are needed to address diverse population needs across Europe.