The latest edition of the Dietary Guidelines for Americans were recently announced by the Agriculture Department and Department of Health and Human Services. HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. points out they form the basis of dozens of federal feeding programs.
“These standards affect 45 million school lunches every day. Meals for 1.3 million active-duty service members and food served to 9 million veterans in VA hospitals.”
As for the new dietary guidelines, perhaps one key takeaway, according to Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins, is the emphasis on eat real food. The explanation, according to the HHS secretary, is a change of emphasis regarding food groups.
“Protein and healthy fats are essential. Diets rich in vegetables and fruits reduce disease risk. Whole grains outperform refined carbohydrates,”
Plus limiting of highly processed foods, added sugars and artificial additives, among other recommendations. Agriculture Secretary Rollins sums up the primary focus of the new dietary guidelines from a health perspective: prevention of chronic health issues and diseases through consumption of a healthier diet. HHS Secretary Kennedy explains this monetarily.
“The CDC reports that 90% of health care spending treats chronic disease. That means that 40 cents of every dollar that taxpayers pay in this country is going to treat diseases that could be averted through good food.”
To explain the breakdown of the new dietary guidelines for Americans at the recent announcement, a familiar concept was reintroduced to consumers: a food guide pyramid. However, more reflecting the upside-down triangle, with proteins, dairy, healthy fats, fruits and vegetables at the wide base of the top of the pyramid. Agriculture Secretary Rollins adds the new dietary guidelines for Americans also provides expanded opportunity for American agriculture to be at the forefront of improving our citizens’ health and nutrition.
“This pivot leans into the abundant, affordable and healthy food supply already available from America’s incredible farmers and ranchers making milk, raising cattle and growing wholesome fruits, vegetables and grains. They hold the key to solving our national health crisis.”
More details about the Dietary Guidelines for Americans for 2025-2030 can be found online at www.realfood.gov.