Dietary Guidelines for Americans

The Dietary Guidelines for Americans contains the federal government’s basic nutrition advice for its citizens, and forms the basis for much federal, state, and local nutrition policies.

Updated once every five years, the DGA is written jointly by the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the Department of Health and Human Services, based on a science report written by a distinguished panel of scientific experts, the Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee.

The advice in the Guidelines has changed little in the past 35 years. The document typically calls on Americans to consume more fruit, vegetables, and whole grains, and less refined grains, added sugars, and fatty meat. While some have actually blamed the Guidelines for obesity or other health problems in the population, the truth is that Americans have not, nor do they now, eat according to the Guidelines. That’s why the Center for Science in the Public Interest and other health advocates support policies that help Americans select diets that are more in line with the government’s sensible advice.

Background Information about the Dietary Guidelines for Americans:

FAQ: Dietary Guidelines for Americans

The Process to Develop the 2020-2025 Dietary Guidelines for Americans

The process to develop the 2020-2025 Dietary Guidelines for Americans is underway. For the first time, the guidelines will provide nutrition advice for pregnant and lactating women, infants, and children through 24 months of age. Learn more about the process and how to get involved at dietaryguidelines.gov. Below you will find some of our advocacy materials, including written and oral comments submitted to the federal agencies and advisory committee charged with updating the guidelines. As usual, CSPI is working to ensure that this update is based on the strongest science available.