KINDS-2 surveyed 2,970 members of the public in the UK, USA, and Australia and 498 health professionals across 42 countries. Knowledge of dietary nitrate was low in both cohorts. Health professionals scored higher on the harmonised index, but identifying nitrate-rich foods remained a central weakness. Most respondents were willing to consume such foods when supported by evidence.
Key findings
- Only 28.7% of the public cohort had heard of dietary nitrate. • Median knowledge was low in both cohorts, although health professionals performed better. • Willingness to consume nitrate-rich foods suggests an opportunity for targeted evidence-based education.
Why this matters globally
The results identify a communication gap that may impede appropriate use of evidence on dietary nitrate. Clearer distinctions between food-derived nitrate and concerns about additives could improve nutrition education internationally.
Thai researcher contribution
Mario Siervo is affiliated with Chulalongkorn University in the source metadata, connecting a Thai institution to a multinational nutrition-knowledge survey spanning health professionals in 42 countries.
Limitations to consider
The public cohort came from an online platform in three countries, while professionals were recruited through networks, creating selection-bias risks. Cross-sectional responses measure knowledge and intentions rather than sustained behaviour.