Dietitians and Nutritionists

Dietitians often use AI-powered tools to help with data, but most core tasks still rely on human expertise. For example, many dietitians use apps that analyze meal photos or data to create diet plans, and studies show most find these tools helpful ^[1]. Hospitals are starting to try AI note-taking and decision-support systems to streamline charting and recommendations ^[2].

However, these apps still need an RD’s input: a University of Sydney study found that photo-based food trackers can misidentify cultural foods unless dietitians help train them ^[3]. We did not find examples of AI completely taking over tasks like writing nutrition policy or school lunch rules – that work is complex and still done by people. In short, AI can automate routine data work (like analyzing menus or tracking calories) and give dietitians more information at once, but experts must check and act on it.

This means dietitians still inspect meals and ensure safety and quality, while AI tools mostly support them.

Many dietitians see AI as a helpful tool and are willing to use it ^[1]. For example, in a 2025 survey over 60% of dietitians said they already use AI in their work, and two-thirds felt it made their tasks easier ^[1]. On the other hand, AI adoption can be slower when people worry about losing personal touch.

In that same survey, nearly 9 out of 10 dietitians said they were concerned that AI might reduce face-to-face care ^[1]. Also, AI tools need lots of data and testing – a camera app needs to learn all kinds of foods – which can be expensive and take time. Since dietitians' work is very personal, many clients and regulators expect human oversight ^{[3] [1]}.

Cost is another factor: small clinics may not afford new systems if labor is cheaper. In balance, AI offers efficiency (and job growth is expected for dietitians ^[4]), but broad use will depend on building trust, ensuring fairness, and keeping dietitians in charge ^{[3] [2]}.