Is it time for a shake-up of the Eatwell Guide? What do Dietitians, Nutritionists and other Health Professionals want?

Abstract The UK food-based dietary guidelines (FBDG) are a key public health tool that provides evidence-based recommendations for a healthy diet. However, adherence is low, with less than 0.1% of the UK population meeting all nine recommendations set out in the Eatwell Guide. A population-level shift towards a diet aligned with the FBDG would lower rates of obesity and non-communicable diseases (1) . Health professionals, who play a central role in translating dietary guidance into practice, have highlighted limitations in both the FBDG and its communication. This review highlights the views of health professionals in calling for a substantial “shake up” of the Eatwell Guide. It sets out considerations of updating the UK dietary recommendations to include the integration of sustainability alongside nutrition modelling, and a review of supporting tools, resources and communication strategies. Investment from the UK government together with engagement from health professionals and other unbiased stakeholders is needed to develop a government-created and funded central hub of practical and adaptable resources which pulls together efforts from individual health professionals and other organisations to provide practical advice that can be tailored and personalised for individuals and diverse communities. This review summarises the current views of health professionals on the Eatwell Guide, advocating for a comprehensive “shake-up” of the UK FBDG and its communication to improve population’s adherence to dietary patterns that support both human and environmental health.