March is National Nutrition Month! This year’s theme for National Nutrition Month is “Celebrate a World of Flavors”! With the ever-changing pandemic continues, world travel may not be an option right now. The good news is that you don’t need to leave the country to experience new foods and cultures! The U.S. is such a melting pot of cultures that there is a variety of different cultures out there for you to experience. 

National Nutrition Month

Every year in March, the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics celebrates National Nutrition Month! The purpose of National Nutrition Month is to put a focus on healthful eating. Around the country, dietitians bring a focus to making informed food decisions and developing healthy eating habits that will last a lifetime. 

A World of Flavor

What is the message behind this year’s Nutrition Month theme? Celebrate a World of Flavors! To celebrate a world of flavors is to embrace global cultures, cuisines, and inclusivity. This month, every culture has a place at the table as we explore the foods and cultures from around the world. Furthermore, this month is about helping people choose healthier food options while remaining rooted to their culture and cuisine. This month (and every day), dietitians help clients fine-tune traditional recipes, provide alternative cooking methods and other healthful advice for incorporating family-favorite foods into everyday meals. You don’t have to let go of your culture and heritage in order to live a healthy life! 

How Can You Celebrate?

In our grocery stores, we have a wide variety of international foods to choose from, so you don’t even need to leave your house to travel to a different country! Experience the flavors of Korea with gochujang, Shin Ramyun, and roasted seaweed snacks. Across the sea is Japan, with Japanese matcha tea bags, Pocky, and Kikkoman Tofu Miso soup. Travel to India with our variety of tikki masala, naan, curry, and samosas. 

Depending on where you live, there also may be a variety of different cultural restaurants available to you. Step out of your comfort zone this month and try a different type of food that you’ve never had while supporting businesses around you! Use this month to explore new cultures and cuisines. You might find a new favorite!