Natural Chef
Scope of Service
A natural chef combines traditional preparation techniques using whole foods. They cater to the individual’s needs, rather than a one-size-fits-all approach. They become experts in food preparation, flavor development, and presentation, producing healthy meals that focus on nutritional value. Natural Chefs utilize fresh, seasonal, organic, and locally sourced foods. They combine traditional culinary techniques with nourishing foods to promote optimal health.
Knowledge & Skillset:
- The combination of classic culinary training with therapeutic techniques for the promotion of optimal health.
- The ability to prepare meals with therapeutic ingredients that increase the nutritional content to nourish and support the health of their clients.
- The basics of nutrition theory and the fundamental relationship between food and health.
- Broad knowledge of natural ingredients and how to prepare them.
- Ability to adapt and transform everyday dishes into healthy meals.
- Knowledge of current trends in ‘healthy eating’ with their relative strengths and weaknesses.
- Familiarity with sustainable farming practices and what is meant by organic, biodynamic, free-range, and grass-fed/grass-finished.
Role Delineation:
A natural chef is a culinary expert who cooks meals with the whole body in mind. Nutrition is a foremost consideration. The role of the natural chef is to provide nutrient-rich meals and menu plans based on whole, seasonal, locally grown, organic foods, as well as nutritive herbs and spices, to create meals that support metabolic balance and optimal health.
Natural Chefs DO
- Prepare healthy cuisine that incorporates holistic nutrition and fresh, minimally processed foods procured in season.
- Work in restaurants, cafeterias, catering services, and privately for individuals who have specific health concerns.
- Teach their clients how to prepare natural foods.
- Operate with the highest standard of accountability and integrity.
- Adhere to NANP’s Scope of Service and Code of Ethics.
Natural Chef’s DO NOT
- Practice Medical Nutrition Therapy, clinical nutrition, or holistic nutrition, unless they are adequately educated, licensed, or certified in those fields of study.
- Make unproven or otherwise unsubstantiated claims regarding the potential efficacy of a meal or menu plan.
- Misrepresent training.
NANP Approved Natural Chef Training Programs
The following programs have met NANP’s educational standards. Graduates of these programs are eligible for Professional membership in the NANP.
Bauman College
Holistic Nutrition and Culinary Arts
Learn traditional culinary techniques and how to use alternative ingredients while gaining entrepreneurial skills to build a rewarding career working with food. Our 12-month, 100% online + externship Holistic Chef culinary program empowers and supports you to nourish yourself and others in the field of culinary arts.
College of Naturopathic Medicine
CNM Natural Chef & Vegan Natural Chef
Complete the CNM Natural Chef course and unlock a world of possibilities in the culinary and wellness industries. You could become a Natural Chef in a restaurant or spa. Work as a personal chef, launch your own healthy catering or food business, or choose to educate clients on preparing nutritious, natural foods. With endless opportunities, your journey as a Natural Chef starts here!