The genesis of MyPlate: replacing the Pyramid
The story of MyPlate is part of a longer history of U.S. dietary guidance. For years, the federal government used a pyramid-shaped graphic to help illustrate nutritional recommendations. However, the multi-layered and sometimes complex MyPyramid icon, introduced in 2005, proved to be less impactful than desired. MyPyramid was criticized for its abstract design, which, without an accompanying key, could be difficult for consumers to interpret quickly. The vertical, colored bands representing food groups were not as intuitive as the USDA had hoped.
In response to these shortcomings, and as part of the broader 2010 Dietary Guidelines for Americans, the USDA sought a new approach. The goal was to create a visual that was both simple and immediately recognizable. A plate, a universal symbol of mealtimes, emerged as the perfect solution. The new design was unveiled by First Lady Michelle Obama and Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack during a press conference in June 2011. It was part of the broader 'Let's Move!' initiative, which focused on combating childhood obesity.
The transition from MyPyramid to MyPlate
The transition from the pyramid to the plate was a calculated move to create a more effective public health tool. While the nutritional science behind the recommendations didn't change dramatically, the delivery mechanism was completely overhauled to be more user-friendly. MyPlate was designed to help people visualize a balanced meal instantaneously.
The core principles of MyPlate
The MyPlate icon simplifies dietary guidance into an easy-to-digest format, focusing on the five main food groups:
- Fruits: A portion of the plate is dedicated to fruits, with a focus on whole fruits over juice.
- Vegetables: Half of the plate is filled with fruits and vegetables, emphasizing the importance of vegetables.
- Grains: Another portion of the plate is for grains, with a recommendation to make at least half of all grains whole grains.
- Protein: A smaller portion is for protein foods, encouraging variety.
- Dairy: A separate circle next to the plate represents the dairy group, with recommendations for low-fat or fat-free options.
MyPlate vs. MyPyramid: A comparison
| Feature | MyPyramid (2005-2011) | MyPlate (2011-present) |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Visual | A pyramid with multi-colored vertical stripes. | A dinner plate and glass. |
| Key Message | Represented via a website URL and abstract visual cues. | Self-evident, representing a mealtime setting. |
| Ease of Use | Required interpretation and access to a website for details. | Simple and actionable, visually guiding portion sizes. |
| Food Groups | Six food groups represented by vertical bands. | Five food groups represented as sections of a plate and a drink. |
| Physical Activity | Included as part of the overall message, represented by a person climbing stairs. | Separated from the food icon, with messaging handled via complementary materials. |
| Target Audience | Broad public, but often seen as too abstract for quick understanding. | The average American consumer, prioritizing clarity and simplicity. |
MyPlate's implementation and impact
The launch of MyPlate was accompanied by a robust educational campaign and the creation of the ChooseMyPlate.gov website. The website offered practical tools, resources, and tips for healthy eating, including personalized meal plans and recipes. The campaign was designed to be interactive and accessible, reinforcing the simple message of the icon with actionable advice.
Following its development, research into the effectiveness of MyPlate has been ongoing. Studies have documented varying levels of awareness and understanding among consumers, suggesting that while the icon is a vast improvement in simplicity, ongoing education is needed to ensure the public fully grasps and applies its guidelines. The iconic plate has become a ubiquitous symbol in schools, clinics, and public health materials, providing a consistent visual reference point for healthy eating.
As the field of nutrition science evolves, so too will dietary guidance. The strength of MyPlate lies in its adaptability; its core message of balanced portions is timeless, even as specific recommendations may be updated in future Dietary Guidelines for Americans. The development and launch of MyPlate in 2011 represents a key moment in public health, shifting the focus from complex, abstract diagrams to a simple, relatable image that resonates with daily life.
Conclusion
The answer to "when was MyPlate developed?" is June 2, 2011. This date marks the official launch by the USDA, which replaced the previous MyPyramid model with a much clearer and more intuitive plate-based graphic. The shift was a conscious effort to improve public health communication by making nutritional guidance more accessible and easier for the average person to understand and implement. MyPlate's continued presence in nutritional education highlights its enduring success as a simple, effective tool for promoting balanced dietary choices nationwide. For more information on the official guidelines, visit the MyPlate website.
