Livestock Groups React to New 2025 Dietary Guidelines for Americans
Following the announcement of the new 2025–2030 Dietary Guidelines for Americans, livestock organizations are welcoming the updated recommendations, which place a stronger emphasis on protein at every meal and the inclusion of full-fat dairy as part of a healthy, balanced diet. Industry leaders say the changes better reflect current nutrition science while recognizing the role farmers and ranchers play in supporting public health.
One of the most notable shifts in the guidelines is the prioritization of high-quality, nutrient-dense protein sources, including meat and dairy. Livestock groups say this focus aligns with how Americans eat and supports improved nutrition outcomes across all age groups.
The National Pork Producers Council (NPPC) responded positively to the announcement. NPPC President-elect Rob Brenneman said, “America’s pork producers appreciate the 2025 Dietary Guidelines putting pork front and center on the plate. They took note of producer concerns and rightly gave pork and other high-protein, nutrient-dense, and delicious meats their due when it comes to Americans’ health and dietary habits.”
According to an NPPC press release, the administration’s visual approach also sends a strong message to consumers. “The “upside down” pyramid released by the administration encourages consumers to feel good about eating and enjoying their protein as part of a healthy, balanced diet, and America’s pork producers are proud to play a part in their wellbeing by providing readily available, affordable, enjoyable pork products.”
Dairy producers are also applauding the guidelines, particularly the recognition of dairy’s benefits across all fat levels. National Milk Producers Federation (NMPF) President and CEO Gregg Doud emphasized the importance of dairy’s continued inclusion. He said, “NMPF thanks HHS and USDA for recognizing dairy’s critical role in a healthy diet in the new Dietary Guidelines for Americans, as shown by its continued recommendation of three servings of dairy for Americans, its recognition of dairy’s benefits at all fat levels, and dairy’s prominence in diverse diets.”
Doud also pointed to the science behind the recommendations, stating, “As also shown in the scientific report that preceded today’s guidelines, reducing or eliminating dairy from the diet leads to undernourishment in key nutrients for millions of Americans.” He added that the updated guidance better reflects nutritional realities, noting, “Meanwhile, not all fats are created equal, and because the guidelines acknowledge this, dairy’s benefits are better reflected in this iteration of the guidelines.”
With the guidelines now finalized, federal agencies will begin applying them across nutrition and feeding programs nationwide. Livestock groups say the changes represent a meaningful step toward improving health outcomes while reinforcing the value of American agriculture in nourishing families across the country.
Audio Reporting by Dale Sandlin for Southeast AgNet.