New Food Guide

Late last week, the US Department of Agriculture, along with first lady Michelle Obama, introduced MyPlate, a new, more literal way to think about proper nutrition at mealtime. Fruits and vegetables cover half of the new plate; the other half includes grains and protein (versus the old recommendation of meat, or only animal-based protein). In addition, a small circle above the plate serves as a recommendation for dairy. The USDA hopes the simple design will better grab America’s attention at the table. Obama, at the announcement of MyPlate, says it is “simple enough for children to understand, even at the elementary school level. They can learn to use this tool now and use it for the rest of their lives.”