Dietitians as Connectors and Brokers in Food Systems Transformation: A Reflexive Perspective From a Regional Circularity Case Study

Abstract

Introduction

Dietitians are increasingly called upon to address complex food systems challenges, including the transition to circular economies that support both human and planetary health. This reflexive perspective draws on a structured reflective process undertaken by the research team to explore how dietitians can apply their core competencies, such as critical thinking, evidence-based practice, and communication, to lead and facilitate food systems transformation.

Materials and Methods

Drawing on a case study from the Bega Valley region of Australia, known for its unique focus on circularity, researchers from the University of Wollongong conducted interviews with small-scale agrifood producers to identify barriers and enablers to circular supply chains. Findings from this prior qualitative study subsequently informed a structured reflection process undertaken by the inter-disciplinary research team which included dietitians. Using Borton's Reflective Model (‘What? So What? Now What?’ framework), researchers reflected on the role of dietitians in advancing food systems transformation. Reflexive thematic analysis was applied to the written reflections to identify key themes across each stage of the framework.

Results

Of the 10 original research team members, seven completed the reflection process, comprising three dietitians, two engineers with an interest in circular economy, one supply chain expert, and one food systems doctoral researcher. The collective reflections showed: What? We engaged in research exploring perspectives of small-scale producers towards circularity to understand the barriers and enablers towards implementing more circular supply chains. So What? The reflection highlighted dietitians' capacity to engage diverse stakeholders and navigate complexity, with potential to broaden their scope in transitioning the food system. Now What? Researchers proposed actionable pathways to increase dietitians' competencies in systems transformation. Professional advocacy is required to position dietitians for future food system and policy roles.

Conclusion

Reflections from this study suggest that dietitians are well-positioned to act as connectors and brokers within food systems when equipped with systems thinking tools and opportunities for cross-sector engagement.