WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Food Guide Pyramid was introduced by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) in 1992. The pyramid was updated in 2005, then changed to MyPlate in 2011. This month, the USDA released Dietary Guidelines for Americans, 2025–2030, with a new, inverted food pyramid.
The top of the new pyramid, representing the largest portion, includes protein, dairy and healthy fats, along with vegetables and fruits. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. said, “These Guidelines return us to the basics. American households must prioritize whole, nutrient-dense foods — protein, dairy, vegetables, fruits, healthy fats and whole grains — and dramatically reduce highly processed foods. This is how we Make America Healthy Again.” According to the USDA: The Guidelines emphasize simple, flexible guidance rooted in modern nutrition science:
Prioritize protein at every meal Consume full-fat dairy with no added sugars Eat vegetables and fruits throughout the day, focusing on whole forms Incorporate healthy fats from whole foods such as meats, seafood, eggs, nuts, seeds, olives and avocados Focus on whole grains, while sharply reducing refined carbohydrates Limit highly processed foods, added sugars, and artificial additives Eat the right amount for you, based on age, sex, size and activity level Choose water and unsweetened beverages to support hydration Limit alcohol consumption for better overall health
