Purpose and methodsThis summary is based on a scientific symposium organized by the Mediterranean Diet Roundtable and the American Italian Food Coalition titled,‘Positive Nutrition: shifting focus from nutrients to diet for a healthy lifestyle.’ It was held at the Embassy of Italy in Washington DC in September of 2022. The panel of experts discussed how science can inform policy, what insights may be gleaned from different countries’ approaches to healthy eating and what principles of the Mediterranean diet will inform strategies for a healthy future. Recognizing that isolated actions have limited impact on the complex relationship between diet and obesity, the panel discussed the importance of a system approach. In particular, the panel emphasized that focusing on single ingredients, isolated food categories and narrow approaches to policy have had limited success across the globe.Results and conclusionThe panel agreed that there is a need for change of perspective that embraces complexity and emphasizes more positive nutrition messaging and policies.Level of evidence: V, Opinions of respected authorities, based on descriptive studies, narrative reviews, clinical experience, or reports of expert committees.