Ethics and Good Practice

International standards are not meant to replace any national standards that exist, but are meant to put on paper those important matters to which we can all agree. They represent the common ground of dietetics around the world.

The International Code of Ethics and International Code of Good Practice were agreed by the International Confederation of Dietetic Associations and adopted by EFAD in September 2008.

International Code of Ethics

Dietitians practice in a just and equitable manner to improve the nutrition of the world by:

• Being competent, objective and honest in our actions
• Respecting all people and their needs
• Collaborating with others
• Striving for positive nutrition outcomes for people
• Doing no harm
• Adhering to the standards of good practice in nutrition and dietetics

International Code of Good Practice

Provision of Service and application of knowledge

• Provide high quality, cost efficient services in nutrition and dietetics
• Provide services based on the expectation and needs of the community or client
• Competently apply the knowledge of nutrition and dietetics and integrate this knowledge with other
  disciplines in health and social sciences
• Work cooperatively with others to integrate nutrition and dietetics into overall care/service regardless of context
• Work in partnership with clients and users of the service

Developing practice and application of research

• Interpret, apply, participate in or generate research to enhance practice
• Develop a unique body of knowledge
• Have in-depth scientific knowledge of food and human nutrition
• Develop practice based on evidence

Communication

• Communicate effectively through nutrition education, education and training, development of policy and programs
• Advocate for nutrition and dietetics, the alleviation of hunger and the value of services
• Advance and promote the dietetics profession

Quality in practice

• Systematically evaluate the quality of practice and revise practice on the basis of this feedback
• Strive to improve services and practice at all times
• Maintain continued competence to practice

Continued competence and professional accountability

• Ensure accountability to the public
• Accept responsibility for ensuring practice meets legislative requirements
• Maintain continued competence by being responsible for lifelong learning and engaging in self
  development.