Beyond the Table

This year’s theme focuses on the entire journey of nutrition from farm to fork. It encompasses aspects such as food production, distribution, navigating grocery stores and farmers markets, as well as home food safety and storage practices. Additionally, it describes the various ways we eat, including not only meals around a table but also on-the-go, in schools, restaurants, games, and events. Sustainability is also a key component, with an emphasis on reducing food waste across various settings, from schools and workplaces to homes and beyond.

Here are some ways that you can participate in this year’s theme “Beyond the Table”: 

Week 1: Sustaining a Nourishing Diet on a Budget

• Acquiring essential skills in cooking, food preparation, and strategic meal planning.
• Developing financial knowledge and skills, including the use of grocery lists and strategic shopping during sales.
• Encouraging awareness of community resources like SNAP, WIC, and local food banks.
• Practicing home food safety.

Week 2: Consultation with Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN)

• Seeking personalized nutrition advice from a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist.
• Promoting referrals from doctors for comprehensive nutritional guidance.

Week 3: Emphasis on Dietary Diversity

• Exploring various food forms and cultural inclusions.
• Experimenting with ingredients and exploring global cuisines to enhance dietary diversity.

Week 4: Environmentally Conscious Food Choices

• Advocating for environmentally conscious choices.
• Creative use of leftovers, increasing plant-based consumption, and preferring seasonal and local produce.
• Encouraging the possibility of growing food at home or in community gardens.

Please visit the National Nutrition Month® campaign toolkit here to explore official tip sheets, games, activities, press releases and planning materials