New US Food Pyramid Triggers Nutrition Debate

The United States has unveiled a new food pyramid that is drawing criticism from nutrition experts. While the design has changed to an inverted pyramid with stronger language about “real food” and personal responsibility, much of the basic advice remains the same, including eating fruits and vegetables, limiting saturated fat, reducing processed foods, and watching portion sizes.

The biggest controversy is the new emphasis on animal-based foods such as meat, full-fat dairy, butter, and beef tallow, which are high in saturated fat. Health experts warn that saturated fat increases the risk of heart disease and stroke and say the guidelines do not clearly explain how people can eat more of these foods while still staying within healthy limits.

Protein recommendations have also increased, even though most Americans already consume enough protein. Other contradictions include advising people to use salt for flavor while also telling them to reduce sodium intake. Fiber-rich foods like beans and lentils receive little attention, and alcohol guidance is vague.

The pyramid’s image has also been criticized. It visually suggests low intake of whole grains and high intake of meats and saturated fats, which conflicts with the written advice.