• By Krista Kiger
• Posted Monday, July 11, 2011

USDA Introduces MyPlate

The new MyPlate icon uses a plate setting to emphasize the fruit, vegetables, grains, proteins, and dairy food groups, while prompting consumers to think about building a healthy plate at meal times. MyPlate will replace the MyPyramid icon as the government’s primary food group symbol, and has been identified by the Child Obesity Task Force as simple, actionable advice for consumers. This will help consumers with the 2010 Dietary Guidelines for Americans which consist of these messages:
Balance Calories
o Enjoy your food, but eat less.
o Avoid oversized portions.
 
Foods to Increase
o Make half your plate fruits and vegetables.
o Switch to fat-free or low-fat (1%) milk.
o Make at least half your grains whole grains.
 
Foods to Reduce
o Compare sodium (salt) in foods like soup, bread, and frozen meals -  and choose foods with lower numbers.
o Drink water instead of sugary drinks.

Later this year, USDA will unveil an exciting “go-to” online tool that consumers can use to personalize and manage their dietary and physical activity choices.

MyPyramid materials will remain available to interested health professionals and nutrition educators in a special section on the new site.

For updated information as more becomes available, visit: www.choosemyplate.gov.