Tag: Fats and sweets

First introduced in 1992, the USDA's original Food Guide Pyramid was a visual representation of recommended daily food intake. On the top of the USDA food pyramid, the smallest section was dedicated to fats, oils, and sweets, indicating they should be consumed sparingly due to their low nutritional value. This model has since evolved, with the USDA replacing it with the MyPlate icon in 2011 to provide a clearer, more balanced guide to healthy eating.

According to the USDA's MyPlate initiative, the primary food groups are fruits, vegetables, grains, protein, and dairy. So, what food group do cookies belong to? They are not considered a primary food group, but rather a food high in fats and sugars, categorized outside the main five groups as an "empty calorie" food.

While often discussed in nutrition, fats, oils, and sweets are not considered one of the five primary food groups. This article clarifies which items are truly foundational and which are 'extras' to be limited for a healthier lifestyle.

The original Food Guide Pyramid, first introduced by the USDA in 1992, visually represented dietary recommendations, with the largest portions at the base. Understanding this iconic symbol helps determine what food should we eat most and less according to the Food Guide Pyramid for building a balanced diet.