WASHINGTON–March has arrived, and with it comes National Nutrition Month, an annual campaign led by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. This year’s theme, “Food Connects Us,” highlights food's powerful role in uniting people across cultures, generations, and communities.
The Food Industry Association is celebrating this theme by emphasizing the importance of family meals through its Family Meals Movement. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion like Friendsgiving, sharing meals strengthens relationships, encourages healthy habits, and enhances well-being.
How FMI's Family Meals Movement aligns with "Food Connects Us"
- Eating together encourages healthier habits
FMI highlights research showing that families who share meals tend to consume more fruits, vegetables, and nutrient-rich foods, leading to better long-term health. Children and teens who eat with their families regularly perform better academically and are less likely to develop unhealthy eating habits.
- Mealtime strengthens family bonds
Food is more than just nourishment—it serves as a connection point. Sitting down together fosters meaningful conversations, emotional support, and quality time. Research from the FMI Foundation indicates that family meals not only improve dietary habits but also contribute to better psychosocial outcomes in children.
- Honoring cultural traditions through food
Family meals help preserve heritage, pass down culinary skills, and share traditions across generations. Preparing a family recipe or trying new ingredients strengthens cultural ties and fosters appreciation for diverse cuisines.
Recognizing the evolving needs of families, FMI and its partners provide various tools to make mealtime easier and more accessible, including:
- Budget-friendly meal solutions and family-friendly meal kits
- Easy-to-follow recipes and meal-planning tools
- Partnerships with Registered Dietitian Nutritionists (RDNs) and Nutrition and Dietetics Technicians, Registered (NDTRs) to provide nutrition education and support
By promoting family meals, FMI reinforces the message that food does more than sustain us—it brings us together. As National Nutrition Month® 2025 unfolds, FMI encourages families to embrace the power of shared meals to build healthier, happier lives and stronger communities.
For more information on the Family Meals Movement and how to get involved, visit their website.
