Louisiana requires a license to provide nutritional care, however there is an exemption in another part of the law which allows for broader unlicensed practice. That exemption, RS 37:1742.1, which describes practitioners as a “vendor” states that:
“Any person who provides information or makes recommendations regarding lifestyle modifications, food, dietary supplements, or homeopathic remedies, for a consulting fee..” but who is not licensed as a dietitian or other health care provider, is exempt under the law, so long as you:
Disclose to the consumer “prior to providing such services” a plainly worded statement which includes all of the following:
(1) The name, business, and telephone number
(2) The fact that he or she is not licensed, certified, or registered as a health care provider in the state of Louisiana.
(3) That any food or dietary supplements being recommended are not medically prescribed drugs.
(4) If applicable, the degree or degrees, training, or credentials regarding services provided.
Receive from the consumer and provide a written copy to regarding “written acknowledgment ….stating that the consumer has been provided with” the disclosure information, also acknowledging that such disclosure will be maintained by the practitioner for two years.
Within the law, “lifestyle modifications” means the broad domain of traditional or homeopathic health care practices and other complementary health practices and services provided by a person who is not licensed, certified or registered.
Source: Title 37, Chapter 41. Exemption: RS 37:1742.1