The resulting guidelines create and inform federal policy, school lunch menus, nutritional education programs, state and local health initiatives, and so much more.
The USDA and HHS are currently reviewing a report from the Dietary Guidelines Committee, which shares their study of nutrition and health science (the full report can be read here). This review will be used to create the 2020 Dietary Guidelines for Americans—and will influence policy and consumer choices until 2025.
Farm Sanctuary supports whole-food, vegan diets—not only to end our exploitative relationship with animals—but because of the array of health benefits they provide for individuals of all ages and lifestyles. We also recognize that the availability of vegan food options varies depending on circumstances and that, for many, access to fruits, vegetables, and plant protein sources is limited. By pushing the USDA and HHS to emphasize plant-based foods in the National Dietary Guidelines, we can help direct valuable government resources to provide access to plant-based options for more people.
The USDA and HHS are currently accepting public comments before creating their final 2020 Dietary Guidelines for Americans document. The public comment period ends this Thursday, August 13 at 11:59 PM EST.
Farm Sanctuary President and Co-founder Gene Baur submitted a lengthy comment to the USDA and HHS on August 6. You can read his comment to learn more or to find inspiration for your own comments!