A Tale of Two Apps: Disentangling the MyPlate Confusion
The confusion surrounding the MyPlate app arose from a critical distinction between two separate applications. On one hand, there was a third-party calorie-counting app called 'MyPlate' developed by Livestrong. On the other, there is the official, government-backed 'Start Simple with MyPlate' app from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). The Livestrong-owned calorie tracker is the one that was removed, causing alarm for its long-time user base. The USDA's tool, which focuses on daily food goals rather than detailed calorie counting, has continued to operate without interruption.
The Discontinuation of the Livestrong MyPlate App
On July 9, 2023, the Livestrong MyPlate app officially ceased its service. Users received in-app notifications in the months leading up to the shutdown, informing them of the company's decision. This version of the app was known for its expansive database of foods, barcode scanning functionality, and ability to track calories and macronutrients. Following the shutdown, all user data was archived for a limited period before being permanently deleted, with user privacy as a stated priority. The developers did not publicly disclose the specific reasons for discontinuing the popular service.
The Official USDA 'Start Simple with MyPlate' App
In contrast to the deleted Livestrong app, the official USDA 'Start Simple with MyPlate' app is still readily available on app stores. This government-produced tool has a different objective. Instead of focusing on detailed logging and calorie metrics, it encourages users to set simple daily goals based on the MyPlate dietary guidelines. Users can track their progress, earn badges for meeting goals, and receive healthy eating tips. The app is designed to help users build healthier habits one step at a time and is not intended as a replacement for a comprehensive, detailed nutrition tracker.
What Were the Key Differences?
To help clarify the differences between the discontinued Livestrong app and the active USDA app, consider the following comparison:
| Feature | Livestrong MyPlate App (Discontinued) | USDA Start Simple with MyPlate App (Active) |
|---|---|---|
| Core Function | Calorie and macronutrient tracking, food diary. | Setting and tracking simple daily food group goals. |
| Data Management | Extensive food database with barcode scanning. | Guidance based on official Dietary Guidelines for Americans. |
| Motivation Style | Focused on granular data, metrics, and weight loss goals. | Utilizes badges and challenges to build habits gradually. |
| Data Export | Offered data export functionality for users before discontinuation. | Account-based synchronization for goals and progress. |
| Status | Discontinued on July 9, 2023. | Available and regularly updated on app stores. |
Finding Alternatives to the Discontinued App
With the demise of the Livestrong app, many users scrambled to find suitable replacements. The market offers numerous alternatives, each with unique features that might appeal to former users. For example, Cronometer is a popular choice known for its comprehensive nutrient tracking and support for importing old MyPlate data. Other options include MyFitnessPal, known for its large database, and MyNetDiary, which offers extensive features for those willing to pay for a premium subscription. Choosing the right alternative often depends on whether a user prioritizes detailed data, a streamlined interface, or a supportive community.
How to Choose a New Nutrition App
When selecting a new nutrition tracking app, consider the features that were most important to you in the old MyPlate app. Start by assessing your primary goal, such as calorie counting for weight loss, macro tracking for fitness, or simply building healthier habits. Review app store descriptions and user reviews to get a sense of each app's user interface, data accuracy, and community support. Many apps, like Cronometer, offer a free version that allows you to test the core features before committing to a paid subscription. Ultimately, a smooth transition relies on identifying the app that best aligns with your personal health and wellness objectives.
Conclusion
To definitively answer the question did the MyPlate app get deleted, it is necessary to distinguish between the two separate versions. The Livestrong-developed, calorie-counting app was indeed deleted in July 2023, leaving a gap for users who relied on its detailed tracking features. However, the official USDA 'Start Simple with MyPlate' app remains active, serving its distinct purpose of encouraging habit formation based on government dietary guidelines. Former users of the Livestrong app have since transitioned to other third-party nutrition trackers available on the market, such as Cronometer and MyFitnessPal, to continue their health and wellness journeys. The episode serves as a reminder to always verify the source and purpose of any app, especially when its name could be confused with another service.
Resources for your nutrition journey
- The official USDA MyPlate website: https://www.myplate.gov/ is the best source for information regarding the government's nutritional recommendations and resources.
- Cronometer is a popular replacement for the discontinued Livestrong app and can import data from old MyPlate exports.
Key Takeaways
- Deleted App: The third-party Livestrong MyPlate calorie-counting app was officially shut down and removed from app stores in July 2023.
- Active App: The official USDA 'Start Simple with MyPlate' app is a different, government-supported tool and is still available for use.
- Core Difference: The deleted app focused on detailed calorie tracking, while the active USDA app promotes simple goal setting based on national dietary guidelines.
- Data Handling: After the shutdown, Livestrong archived and permanently deleted user data for the discontinued MyPlate app.
- Replacements: Many former users have switched to alternative nutrition tracking apps like Cronometer, MyFitnessPal, or MyNetDiary.
- Choosing an Alternative: Consider your specific needs, such as data accuracy, community support, or budget, when selecting a new app to replace the deleted MyPlate tool.
- Official Resources: The MyPlate.gov website and the 'Start Simple with MyPlate' app are the go-to sources for U.S. government-backed nutritional information and tools.
FAQs
Q: Did the calorie-counting MyPlate app get deleted? A: Yes, the calorie-counting app called 'MyPlate,' which was operated by Livestrong, was officially discontinued and removed from all app stores on July 9, 2023.
Q: Is the official USDA MyPlate app still available? A: Yes, the official U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) app, called 'Start Simple with MyPlate,' is a separate tool and is still available on the Apple App Store and Google Play Store.
Q: What is the main difference between the old Livestrong app and the USDA app? A: The main difference is their function; the old Livestrong app was a detailed calorie and macro tracker, while the USDA 'Start Simple' app focuses on setting and achieving simple daily goals related to food groups.
Q: Why was the Livestrong MyPlate app deleted? A: The developers of the Livestrong MyPlate app did not provide a public reason for its discontinuation, but they did notify users that service would cease in July 2023.
Q: Can I still access my old data from the deleted MyPlate app? A: No, as of mid-2023, the Livestrong MyPlate app developers archived and permanently deleted all user data, with privacy as a priority. Any data not exported by the user before the shutdown is no longer accessible.
Q: What are some good alternatives to the deleted MyPlate app? A: Popular alternatives include Cronometer, which was recommended for former MyPlate users and even supported data imports, as well as MyFitnessPal and MyNetDiary.
Q: What is the 'Start Simple with MyPlate' app used for? A: The 'Start Simple with MyPlate' app helps users build healthy eating habits by allowing them to pick daily food goals, track progress, and earn badges for motivation.
Q: Does Cronometer have a feature similar to MyPlate's data export? A: Cronometer allowed former MyPlate users to import their data from an exported JSON file into their platform, making the transition smoother for many.
Q: Was the USDA involved in the deletion of the Livestrong MyPlate app? A: No, the discontinuation of the third-party Livestrong app was a separate event and was not initiated or influenced by the USDA. The official USDA app and website continue to operate.
