Posted: March 2024
The Nutrition Services Department is celebrating National Nutrition Month. See how our staff members are helping Columbus residents bring nutritious food to their table.
National Nutrition Month® is an annual campaign established in 1973 by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. During the month of March, we invite everyone to learn about making informed food choices and developing healthful eating and physical activity habits.
Our Nutrition Service Department is composed of many staff members with different degrees in culinary, nutrition and dietetics, applied sciences and more. This past month a group of Registered Dietitians (RD’s) and Dietetic Technicians (NDTR’s) volunteered at the Mid-Ohio Food Collective (MOFC). They helped box and pack meals for individuals & families who may not have access to nutritious foods.
As we all know, a well-balanced, nutritious diet is important for our overall health. For those diagnosed with malnutrition, it is vital. The inability to access recommended foods whether it is due to factors such as lack of transport and/or location is known as food insecurity. Food insecurity is one factor that can increase someone’s risk of developing malnutrition and can be a barrier for those overcoming a malnutrition diagnosis. MOFC is just one group in the Columbus area working to combat food insecurity.
Budget and the rising cost of foods are also factors leading to food insecurity. For some tips and tricks to save money at the store, check out the Eating Healthy on a Budget handout created by our OSU staff: go.osu.edu/pted1169
Thanks again to all staff who volunteered at MOFC! See links below for places you can donate, volunteer, and support initiatives focused on tackling food insecurity.
- Mid-Ohio Food Collective
- Besa
- Rescuing Leftover Cuisine Columbus
- Policies tackling food insecurity:
- Home and Community
- Section 1115 Demonstration Waiver and/or a State Plan Amendment (SPA)
If you or someone you know is experiencing food insecurity, please visit these sites for resources:
Written by Devon Wagner, MS RDN LD