Is there a difference?

The terms “Dietitian” and “Registered Dietitian” are legally protected terms in Canada.  A Registered Dietitian (RD) is a food and nutrition expert who has met very specific academic and professional practice requirements.  In British Columbia, a Registered Dietitian’s practice falls under Chapter 183 of the Health Professions Act [RSBC 1996]. The College of Dietitians of British Columbia (CDBC) is the legislative body that oversees the professional practice of all Dietitians practicing in this Province, across all practice areas and settings.

The term "Nutritionist" is not regulated in Canada.  Anyone in Canada can hang out a shingle and call themselves a "nutritionist", without any specific academic and professional practice requirements. While some “nutritionists" have university education in food and nutritional science, others have little or no formal education at all. "Nutritionists" with university degrees may be engaged in research studies, writing nutritional education materials for industry or in the nutrition education of individuals and groups. Remember, there is no legislation in Canada governing the conduct and practice of “nutritionists”.

Note: Some Dietitians that work in community settings may refer to themselves as “Nutritionists”. Nutritionists who are Registered Dietitians will have the credential “RD” listed after their academic degree (BSc, MSc or PhD).  Remember, only Nutritionists who are also Registered Dietitians are regulated health professionals.