Nutritionist Day: Celebrating Dr. Pedro Escudero

Buenos Aires, argentina – August 11, 2023 – Today marks Nutritionist Day, an annual observance honoring the legacy of dr.Pedro Escudero, a pivotal figure in the progress of nutritional science in Latin America. Celebrated across several nations as 1974, the day recognizes the vital contributions of nutrition professionals to public health.

The commemoration of nutritionist Day began in 1974,spearheaded by initiatives within Argentina,Chile,and Uruguay,to acknowledge the growing importance of nutritional science and the professionals dedicated to it. Dr. EscuderoS work directly addressed prevalent health issues of the early 20th century, including malnutrition and related diseases, particularly impacting vulnerable populations in Argentina.

Born in Buenos Aires on August 11, 1887, Dr. Pedro Escudero revolutionized the understanding of food and its impact on health. He established the National Nutrition Institute (Instituto Nacional de Nutrición) in 1936, located on Avenida Rivadavia 2925, in Buenos Aires. This institute became a leading center for training dietitians and nutritionists, influencing nutritional policies and practices throughout Argentina and neighboring countries. Escudero’s research focused on the metabolic effects of different foods and the importance of a balanced diet for optimal health, publishing key findings in journals like the Revista del Río de la Plata.

Escudero’s approach was notably holistic, integrating biochemical analysis with practical dietary recommendations. He advocated for national food policies aimed at improving public health, including fortification programs to address vitamin and mineral deficiencies. His work directly influenced the development of school lunch programs and nutritional guidelines for hospitals across Argentina. He passed away on February 23, 1971, leaving behind a lasting legacy in the field of nutrition.

Nutritionist Day serves as a reminder of the critical role nutrition professionals play in promoting well-being,preventing disease,and fostering lasting dietary habits. The Argentine Association of Dietitians and Nutritionists (Asociación Argentina de Dietistas y Nutricionistas – AADyN) actively promotes events and educational initiatives each year to celebrate the day and raise awareness about the importance of professional nutritional guidance.