The general assembly finds that the application of scientific knowledge relating to food is important in the treatment of illness and disease and the attainment and maintenance of health. There are currently no clear means for the public to identify the qualifications of persons providing dietetic services and nutritional care for infants, children, pregnant females, elderly persons, poor persons, overweight persons, chronically and terminally ill persons and fitness enthusiasts. Consumers and patients are becoming increasingly concerned about their diets and nutrition as well as the effectiveness of the information and services being offered to the public. The general assembly further finds that in order to protect the public health, safety and welfare, it is necessary to define the qualifications and requirements for persons offering certain dietetic and nutritional advice and services to the public. It is the purpose of this chapter to restrict the use of certain titles to persons who are professionally qualified to use them, thereby ensuring that persons practicing the profession of dietetics and nutrition meet minimum standards of proficiency and competency acquired through adequate training and experience.