Creating an interactive timeline of Canadian dietetic history: media dietetics

ABSTRACT

Introduction: The history of dietetic practice was most recently recorded in the 1993 publication, Canadian Dietitians Making a Difference. At this time, the role of dietitians working in traditional media (television, radio, newspaper etc.) was emerging. Additionally, social networking websites were non-existent until yr following this book's publication. Thus, historical record in this area of practice is lacking and documentation is required. Objectives: To develop a timeline and conduct key informant interviews to describe the historical experience of dietitians working in traditional and social media from a Canadian perspective since 1993. Methods: A draft timeline of media dietetics was created based on a literature review and descriptions of key media initiatives provided by informants. Eleven key informants completed semi-structured audio-taped telephone interviews, using the draft timeline as a starting point. Recordings were transcribed and coded by six research team members for descriptive and interpretive content using thematic analysis. A social ecologic framework was used to organize themes. Results: Interviewees worked in 9 provinces while involved in the media including Ontario (n = 7), Manitoba (n = 4), Quebec (n = 3), British Columbia (n = 2), Nova Scotia (n = 2), Saskatchewan (n = 2), New Brunswick (n = 1), Alberta (n = 1) and Prince Edward Island (n = 1). They reported 6--41 yr of dietetic work experience in the media (mean 22.2 yr). Five main meta-themes emerged from the interviews. (i) Media involvement and the expansion from traditional to social media;(ii) advances associated with using media in dietetic practice;(iii) challenges associated with using media in dietetic practice;(iv) media dietetics emerging through DC initiatives and advocacy;and, (v) implications of COVID-19 on the role of media dietitians. Conclusions: Media dietitians play a key role in educating the public and act as trusted and credible sources of nutrition information. Over the past quarter-century, through advances in technology and the development of the internet, Canadian media dietetics has evolved dramatically. Significance: These findings will be used to inform dietitians and students about the history of the profession. A better understanding of dietetic practice in the media can also guide future developments and increase public awareness of the work that dietitians do. Funded by University of Guelph. In-kind support from Dietitians of Canada.