My Plate Guidelines

The USDA released a new symbol to help Americans eat healthier.  This new symbol is a replacement for the My Pyramid symbol.  The colors of the food groups, recommended amounts of food from each of the food groups and daily requirements for a balanced meal has not changed.  

The new My Plate reminds everyone what a balanced healthy meal should look like by showing the portions of each of the food group on a plate.  Learn more about the five food groups.

These are the key messages of the new My Plate that was written to help everyone focus on some specific changes that promote healthier food choices.

Try Our New My Plate For Parents!    

Balancing Calories

• Enjoy your food, but eat less.
• Avoid oversized portions.

Foods to Increase

• Make half your plate fruits and vegetables.
• Make at least half your grains wholegrains.
• Switch to fat-free or low-fat (1%) milk.

Foods to Reduce

• Compare sodium in foods like soup, bread, and frozen meals ― and choose the foods with lower numbers.
• Drink water instead of sugary drinks.