Choose MyPlate

The MyPlate food icon was unveiled by the federal government in 2011 to help Americans make healthier food choices.  MyPlate is designed to encourage consumers to create a healthy plate at every meal by choosing from the fruit, vegetable, grains, protein and dairy food groups.  To learn more, simply log on to www.ChooseMyPlate.gov to find consumer‐friendly tips and strategies, online tools, menus, recipes and nutrition education materials. 

The MyPlate food icon replaces the MyPyramid image as the government’s primary food group symbol, providing a simple visual cue to help consumers adopt healthy eating habits consistent with the 2010 Dietary Guidelines for Americans. The online resources and tools empower people to make healthier food choices for themselves, their families, and their children.

How the MyPlate website works – 
Getting Started

To get an overview of the website, click here

Sample Menus and Recipes

To make at least half your grains whole grains, click on the following links to try new, delicious recipes from the "Grain Chain."
Ham and Swiss Breakfast Casserole
Turkey and Cucumber Sandwich
Whole-Grain Strawberry Pancakes
Cinnamon Raisin Breakfast Mix
White Bean Bruschetta
Zesty Tuna Fish Salad Sandwich
Slow Cooker Pork Stew
Strawberry Banana Parfait
Spaghetti and Spinach Pesto
Zingy Lemon Chicken Pasta
Chicken and Dumpling Soup
Wheat Berry Chili

Featured Recipe:

Mushroom and Cashew Stuffing

Tips and Factoids

Quick facts and helpful information when you need to know – on the go.

Portion Control Guide

10 Tips Nutrition Education Series  
The 10 Tips Nutrition Education Series contains many printable tips for achieving healthier eating habits.  Following are good suggestions for making better choices among grain foods and adding grains to your meals:

* Make Half Your Grains Whole

* Choosing Whole Grain Foods

* Healthy Eating For an Active Lifestyle

* The School Day Just Got Healthier

* Be Choosey in the Dining Hall

* Mini Fridge Makeover

* Build a Healthy Meal

* MyPlate Snack Tips for Parents

The 2010 Dietary Guidelines for Americans

Every five years, the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and the Department of Agriculture (USDA) issue a report containing nutritional and dietary information and guidelines for the general public over two years of age based on a review of scientific evidence. The 2010 Dietary Guidelines for Americans is the most recent version of this report, communicating sound, science-based advice on how to eat healthfully and reduce risk for major chronic diseases through diet and physical activity. 

Click on the following link to view the consumer-friendly brochure outlining these guidelines:

http://www.choosemyplate.gov/print-materials-ordering/dietary-guidelines.html 

Food Groups

MyPlate illustrates the five food groups which are the building blocks for a healthy diet using the familiar image of a place setting for a meal. The idea is to think about what goes on your plate, or in your cup or bowl before you eat. To learn more about selecting among the following food groups: Fruits, Vegetables, Grains, Protein Foods and Dairy, click on the link:http://www.choosemyplate.gov/food-groups/

Grains Group

To learn more about grains, click on the links below:

·       What’s in the Grains Group 

·       How Much is Needed

·       What Counts as an Ounce  

·      Health Benefits and Nutrients of Grains

·       Tips to Help You Eat Whole Grains

Grain Videos