The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics has been found to engage in extensive corporate partnerships, accepting millions from food, beverage, agribusiness, and pharmaceutical companies, influencing public health messaging and shaping dietary guidelines in ways that favor corporate sponsors over evidence-based nutrition and public health.

An investigative report revealed that the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics received financial contributions from several major food and pharmaceutical corporations, including the American Egg Board, National Dairy Council, and Nebraska Beef Council. The exposure raised concerns over whether these ties might influence the organization’s health guidelines. In response, the Academy issued a statement asserting that its funding guidelines are designed to prevent undue industry influence.

The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics refuted allegations of a conflict of interest after an investigative study revealed that it held stocks in junk food and soft drink giants from which it also received funding, raising questions about its commitment to public health and evidence-based practice.

A study by U.S. Right to Know, as reported in a British journal and highlighted by Food Politics, revealed that the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics accepted millions of dollars from major food, pharmaceutical, and agribusiness companies, and maintained investments in ultra-processed food companies. This financial entanglement raises ethical concerns regarding the organization’s independence in advocating for public health.

On October 24, 2022, the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics issued an official statement refuting misleading and false allegations that portrayed it as a victim of corporate capture. The response aimed to clarify the record and affirm its commitment to evidence-based practice and transparency in public health advocacy.

An investigation report reveals that the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics has repeatedly engaged in extensive corporate partnerships, accepting substantial funding and establishing close relationships with food, pharmaceutical, and agribusiness corporations. These interactions have led to conflicts of interest, non-transparent corporate influence over policy and research agendas, and compromises on the organization's public health mission.

A study reveals that the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics has maintained a symbiotic relationship with multinational food, pharmaceutical, and agribusiness corporations by accepting financial contributions, investing in companies such as Nestlé and PepsiCo, and having its leaders hold key positions within these corporations. This involvement raises concerns about the organization’s commitment to advancing public health.