Introduction to Food Literacy

The Introduction to Food Literacy microcredential is the first in a stackable series designed to prepare learners for roles addressing food insecurity, chronic disease prevention, and sustainable food systems. This microcredential prepares learners to translate nutrition knowledge into practical strategies for community education, program delivery, and health literacy. Through hands-on learning in cooking, applied nutrition, and health education, learners will build skills in meal planning, food preparation, nutrition communication, and culturally responsive approaches to promoting healthy eating. Learners will apply these skills through activities that reflect real-world community and food service environments.

This microcredential builds foundational, job-relevant skills for careers in nutrition and dietetics, health and wellness, hospitality and tourism, and community-based human services, including roles such as community health worker, public health educator, Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN), Dietetics Technician, Registered (NDTR), food service professional, wellness coordinator, and community outreach staff. It is well suited for individuals entering or advancing in these fields, as well as students exploring health-related career pathways. This microcredential may contribute to coursework required for learners pursuing the Dietetics Technician, Registered (NDTR) and Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) credentials through applicable degree pathways.

According to the New York State Department of Labor, healthcare occupations are expected to remain in high demand over the next decade as New York State’s population continues to age.