Trump administration reshapes US dietary guidelines around whole foods

The Trump administration has released revised Dietary Guidelines for Americans for 2025–2030 that prioritise whole foods and sharply reduce ultra-processed products.

The guidelines were issued jointly by the US Department of Health and Human Services and the US Department of Agriculture.

Officials said the changes will influence school meals, military rations and federal nutrition assistance programmes.

Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr said, “Our message is clear: Eat real foods,” Robert F. Kennedy Jr saiThe traditional MyPlate model has been replaced with a redesigned food pyramid emphasising protein, healthy fats, dairy, fruits and vegetables.

The guidance encourages higher protein intake from sources including meat, fish, eggs, beans, nuts and seeds.

Full-fat dairy products such as whole milk, yoghurt and cheese are now explicitly recommended.

Added sugars have been capped at 2% of daily calorie intake, a significant reduction from previous advice.

Ultra-processed foods are discouraged, while limits on saturated fat remain below 10% of daily calories.

Officials said the approach reflects a shift towards metabolic health rather than calorie counting alone.

The update forms part of the administration’s “Make America Healthy Again” agenda targeting diet-related chronic disease.

Reaction to the announcement has been divided, with supporters welcoming the focus on whole foods and critics raising affordability concerns.