What is a registered Nutritionist?

The letters RNutr after Clare’s name mean she is registered with the UK Voluntary Register of Nutritionists (UKVRN), which is governed by the Association for Nutrition (the AfN). Only a handful of Equine Nutritionists in the UK are registered with the AfN, who recognise the highest standards in nutrition.

Registered Nutritionists (RNutr) are “qualified nutrition professionals with demonstrable experience of degree-level, evidence-based practice in a specialist area of nutrition competency; animal nutrition, food, nutrition science, public health and/or sport & exercise”. Academic qualifications, professional experience, evidence of keeping up to date and a true enthusiasm for the subject are stipulations for registration.

Registered Nutritionists have a minimum of degree-level nutrition science have committed to adhere to the AfN Standards of Ethics, Conduct and Performance. 

At present, there is no regulation of the title ‘nutritionist’, so in theory anyone can call themselves a nutritionist. Therefore advice from a ‘nutritionist’ who is not registered should be taken with care. The AfN are working hard to get a Royal Charter, meaning their Registrants could be awarded the title ‘Chartered Nutritionists’. Such a title would give the public assurance of a scientifically educated professional who is “accountable to a regulator which sets standards for their education, training, conduct, practice and CPD” and Clare wholeheartedly supports this process. 

Clare MacLeod MSc RNutr

Registered with the Association for Nutrition. "Protecting the public and promoting high standards in evidence-based science and professional practice of nutrition".