New Food Pyramid Sparks Debate Over Cost and Clarity

A local dietitian has raised concerns over the newly updated food pyramid. Brittany Twiss, who works at Sanford Health in Fargo, finds the latest guidelines harder to follow than the older MyPlate model. She also worries that the recommended foods may be too costly for many families.

The revised food pyramid shifts focus away from grains, which were more central in the previous MyPlate version. Instead, it highlights whole foods such as fresh vegetables, fruits, dairy, animal proteins, and healthy fats. Twiss noted that this change makes the guidelines less straightforward for the average person.

One of her main criticisms is the increased emphasis on animal fats and proteins. She questioned why these foods now take up more space in the pyramid, especially when plant-based options could be more affordable. Another issue she pointed out was the higher cost of the recommended items, which might put them out of reach for households on tighter budgets.

So far, neither the FDA nor the USDA has publicly addressed concerns about affordability or accessibility in the new pyramid. The only official feedback documented comes from the American Heart Association, which has flagged worries over sodium levels, saturated fats, and the inclusion of red meat.

Twiss hopes future updates will consider ways to make healthier foods more accessible and budget-friendly. She also called for clearer explanations to help people understand the changes. Without adjustments, the new guidelines may remain difficult for many to follow in practice.