Leaders React to Release of New 2025–2030 Dietary Guidelines for Americans
The release of the new Dietary Guidelines for Americans for 2025–2030 is drawing reactions from lawmakers and federal health leaders, many of whom say the updated guidance represents a return to practical, science-based nutrition policy. The guidelines emphasize nutrient-dense foods, including protein, dairy, fruits, and vegetables, and are expected to shape federal nutrition programs nationwide.
U.S. Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry Chairman John Boozman of Arkansas praised the updates for their clarity and applicability. Boozman said, “These updates provide easy-to-understand nutritional information for school meals and other federal nutrition programs and helps Americans make healthy, informed choices. I appreciate the work of the Advisory Committee and the efforts of USDA and HHS to develop guidance to improve public health.”
Boozman emphasized the importance of grounding dietary recommendations in sound science. He added, “Ensuring that nutrition recommendations remain balanced, practical and firmly rooted in evidence-based science is critical. Recognizing the role of nutrient-dense foods, including meat, dairy, fruits and vegetables, in a well-balanced diet will help us meet our nutritional needs while promoting overall health.” His comments reflect growing bipartisan concern over diet-related chronic disease and the role federal guidance plays in shaping eating habits.
The new guidelines will directly influence a wide range of programs, including school meals, nutrition assistance initiatives, and food served in federal institutions. Supporters say the emphasis on whole, nutrient-dense foods provides flexibility while reinforcing proven dietary principles.
Additional reaction came from USDA National Advisor for Nutrition, Health, and Housing Dr. Ben Carson and Dr. Mehmet Oz, Administrator for the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, who authored a joint opinion piece in Newsweek. In their commentary, they linked the updated guidelines to broader health reform goals under the Trump administration.
They wrote, “Under President Trump’s leadership, we are restoring common sense, scientific integrity, and accountability to federal food and health policy.” The op-ed highlighted the scale of the nation’s health challenges, stating, “America is in the middle of the worst chronic health crisis in our nation’s history, but the Trump administration is laying the groundwork for revitalization—which is rooted in the real, nutritious food grown by our farmers and ranchers.”
Carson and Oz further noted the intent behind the changes, writing, “By amending the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, 2025–2030, President Trump is putting the well-being of Americans first—where it should have been all along. We are reclaiming the food pyramid and returning it to its true purpose: educating and nourishing the American people.”
As federal agencies begin implementing the updated guidelines, supporters say the focus on real food and evidence-based nutrition could play a key role in improving long-term public health outcomes.
Audio Reporting by Dale Sandlin for Southeast AgNet.