DENVER/WASHINGTON, D.C.-The NPC joins with the USPB in congratulating the USDA on developing the new MyPlate icon for dietary guidelines, a straightforward approach communicating how to create healthful plates with a balanced mix of nutrition from a variety of foods. Additionally, USDA developed ChooseMyPlate.gov to be a user-friendly tool in helping consumers make those healthy choices, complete with an educational series of "Ten Tips" on how to get started.
Potatoes are well positioned in the 2010 Dietary Guidelines as well as on MyPlate. Released by USDA in January 2011, the 2010 DGA recommended increased consumption of starchy vegetables including potatoes. Potatoes are mentioned multiple times in sample MyPlate menu plans as a food that is attractive to children, and in tips for incorporating more vegetables into meals. Potatoes are specifically recognized as a vegetable selected to meet the critical need for more potassium. Potatoes are also visually featured as a food having a good source of potassium.
The USDA, Health and Human Services (HHS) and First Lady Michelle Obama unveiled the MyPlate icon Thursday, June 2. This colorful visual is based upon the recommendations from the 2010 Dietary Guidelines (DGA), and replaces the MyPyramid identifier. It suggests people eat balanced meals consisting of servings of fruits, vegetables, grains, protein and dairy. For the first time, the importance of making half the plate fruits and vegetables is represented with a food icon.