By Nafiso Ahmed for Runta News-Columbus, Ohio
The U.S Department of Health and Human Services and the United States Department of Agriculture have released new food guidelines for 2025-2030 with a redesigned food pyramid. The new pyramid focuses more on protein and full-fat dairy, while foods like rice, bread, and grains are placed at the bottom. It also encourages people to avoid sugar and processed foods, which experts agree is helpful; However, some experts disagree with the changes. Christopher Gardner, a nutrition expert at Stanford University, says Americans already get enough protein.
Marion Nestle, a well-known professor and food policy expert, says the guidelines don’t address problems like food cost and access. For immigrant families, this is important because many traditional meals like rice, beans, lentils, and vegetables are already healthy. Experts say families don’t need to fully change their diets. Instead, they should focus on eating balanced meals, cooking at home when possible, and limiting sugary and processed foods. Overall, while the new guidelines promote healthier eating in some ways, there is still debate about whether focusing more on meat and dairy is the best choice.
