The US government has rolled out its new Dietary Guidelines for Americans (DGA) for 2025–2030. The major change? A significant boost in daily protein recommendations and a clear warning against “highly processed” foods.
These guidelines, announced by Robert F. Kennedy Jr. from the Department of Health and Human Services and Brooke Rollins from the USDA, shake things up from past recommendations. They now suggest that adults should consume 1.2 to 1.6 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight. For a 150-pound person, that’s about 81 to 109 grams daily. Full-fat dairy is favored over low-fat options, with advice to include three servings each day in a standard 2,000-calorie diet.
Kennedy emphasizes, “Eat real food.” This message aligns with global trends—42% of consumers say protein is a top priority in their diets, according to Innova Market Insights. The guidelines aim to steer people away from foods high in sugar and artificial ingredients, underscoring an ongoing federal push to clarify what constitutes ultra-processed foods.
For the first time, the guidelines declare that it’s best to avoid foods that are salty or sweet and to limit those with artificial flavors and preservatives. They also state that no amount of added sugars or non-nutritive sweeteners is considered healthy.
This shift is being positioned as a response to rising health issues. Nearly 90% of U.S. healthcare costs are now linked to chronic diseases related to poor diets.
Critics and supporters provide varied responses. The Institute of Food Technologists (IFT) says the guidelines’ clearer language is an improvement but calls for further details to ensure consistency in interpretation. They highlight the need for precise definitions, especially concerning “highly processed” foods.
The meat and dairy industries are thrilled with these new guidelines. The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association praises the emphasis on whole foods and the recognition of red meat as a healthy protein source. Kim Brackett from NCBA mentions that beef is loaded with nutrients and fits well into a balanced diet. Similarly, the International Dairy Foods Association (IDFA) welcomes the focus on full-fat dairy but worries that the term “highly processed” could confuse consumers regarding nutritious options like yogurt and cheese.
On the other hand, public health organizations have mixed reactions. The American Medical Association supports the guidelines but highlights the importance of addressing added sugars and sodium to combat diseases like diabetes and heart issues. Meanwhile, the American Heart Association appreciates the focus on fruits, vegetables, and whole grains but cautions against recommendations that might inadvertently lead people to consume too much sodium and unhealthy fats.
The Center for Science in the Public Interest is more critical, calling the guidelines confusing and dangerous for the one in four Americans who rely on federal nutrition programs. They argue that the guidelines ignore key recommendations from nutrition experts, citing concerns about potential industry influence on the final decisions.
In summary, the new dietary guidelines mark a significant shift toward emphasizing whole foods and protein while urging Americans to avoid highly processed options. Although they have garnered praise from some sectors, the diverse reactions from health professionals underscore the complexity of dietary advice and the ongoing debate about how best to promote a healthier population. For further details, check out the full guidelines on the USDA website.
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Dietary Guidelines, Highly Processed Foods, Protein, MAHA
