Tag: Rd vs rdn

According to the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, the largest organization of food and nutrition professionals, all Registered Dietitians (RDs) are nutritionists, but not all nutritionists are RDs. The core question, "Are RD and RDN the same thing?" hinges on a credentialing update that added a new, optional designation.

According to the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, the titles Registered Dietitian (RD) and Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) are now used interchangeably for the same credential. However, confusion remains among many people about what the difference is, or if a difference even exists. This article clarifies the identical requirements for both titles and what it means for consumers seeking expert nutrition guidance.

The average American adult encounters nutrition advice daily, yet fewer than 10% fully understand the qualifications behind the advice they receive. The letters 'RDN' after a professional's name signifies that they are a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist, a legally protected and highly respected credential in the healthcare field. This designation ensures the individual has met strict educational and training standards set by the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR), setting them apart from unregulated nutrition consultants.

In 2013, the Commission on Dietetic Registration introduced the optional Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) credential, sparking a common question: what is the difference between RD and RDN certification? The short answer is: there is no difference in the requirements, meaning, or legal standing of the two credentials.

In 2013, the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics introduced the optional credential "Registered Dietitian Nutritionist" (RDN) for existing Registered Dietitians (RDs). There is no fundamental difference between RD and RDN; both terms signify the same high level of qualification and expertise in nutrition and dietetics. The change was made to better communicate the professional's scope of practice to the public, as the term "nutritionist" is more widely understood.