The FoodMinds upwaRD program is an industry-leading professional recognition and development program that elevates the voices of emerging nutrition communication leaders. This year’s winners were selected for their expertise in translating evidence-based nutrition recommendations into exciting, engaging, and accessible content in traditional and social media channels.
Today, we hear from Zariel Grullón, a 2024 upwaRD winner!
How do you think nutrition communication will – or should – change in the next 5-10 years?
In the next few years, nutrition communication will have to adapt and evolve to be completely transparent. As we start to battle against misinformation and the accessibility of sensational headlines, nutrition communicators are going to have to be well-equipped to be clear and concise about what the science says, even if it casts a negative light on the brand or product. It would be best and most helpful if brands took the lead on that by having resources to show the transparency behind their products and company. On top of that, nutrition communication will have to be diverse beyond race. The information that needs to be communicated needs to reach all Americans and the communicators should reflect the demographics of the nation, inclusive of race but beyond that as well.
What kinds of messages are you passionate about sharing?
The message I am most passionate about sharing is the importance of including cultural foods and the nutrition they provide. Growing up always hearing my cultural foods be talked about as an “other” or substandard was harmful to say the least. As a dietitian, I am empowered to share that the foods I grew up with have a story to tell and deserve a place on your plate. I am also passionate about sharing information related to women’s health and the research (or lack thereof) that supports it related to conditions like Endometriosis and PCOS. Nutrition, herbs, and lifestyle can play a role in managing those types of conditions, but they are not the only path and the stigma around women’s health is a disservice to us all.
What types of brands or organizations do you get excited about working with?
I am excited to work with brands rooted in social change, liberation and transparency! There’s so much a brand can do to provide good to the world and I am excited to support those missions and sharing them with my audience.
Where can people find you?
Youtube – https://www.youtube.com/@loveyourchichos
Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/loveyourchichos
Tiktok – https://www.tiktok.com/@loveyourchichos
Shop – https://www.loveyourchichos.com/shop
Substack – https://loveyourchichos.substack.com/
Favorite food?
If it’s a home-cooked meal, it’s my mami’s bacalao with black beans, white rice, and tostones!