A situational analysis of registered dietitians' participation in network marketing

Background: Registered dietitians (RDs) are allied health professionals with advanced training in nutrition and food science. To practice, RDs must maintain registration with the regulatory body in their jurisdiction.

Methods: We conducted a situational analysis to better understand: (i) RDs participation as independent sales consultants (ISCs) for network marketing companies and (ii) the role of regulatory bodies in overseeing network marketing participation among RDs. We conducted semi-structured interviews with individuals who had, within the past 5 years, concurrently been an RD and an ISC, and with three representatives of non-RD regulatory bodies in the province of Ontario. Other sources of discursive data included relevant articles published in academic journals and in the mainstream media, documentary series and circulating memes.

Results: Our results are depicted in three maps (ordered situational, arenas and positional). Overall, much of what was highlighted in the reviewed articles and expressed in the analytic maps about network marketing remained unsaid in RD interviews (n = 8).

Conclusions: RDs who participate in network marketing were often able to achieve a level of personal fulfilment that appeared unattainable through their professional work alone. However, the stigma of network marketing participation appeared to diminish the benefits of ISC work. Consistent, clear guidelines from RD regulatory bodies are desired by RD/ISCs.