Dairy's importance in the 2025 dietary guidelines

By Scout Nelson

As the federal government prepares the next edition of the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, dairy is once again at the forefront of the conversation. Dairy foods, including milk, cheese, and yogurt, provide essential nutrients like calcium, vitamin D, and potassium, which are vital for overall health and well-being. The upcoming 2025 guidelines will play a significant role in shaping federal nutrition programs, such as school meals, making it critical that dairy remains a core food group.

Currently, 89% of Americans underconsume dairy, according to the 2020 guidelines. Dairy’s unique nutrient profile is difficult to replace, and it’s particularly important for children’s growth and development. Scientific evidence strongly supports maintaining dairy’s three-servings-per-day recommendation.

Efforts are underway to safeguard dairy’s role amid challenges from advocates for plant-based alternatives. These alternatives lack the nutritional equivalency of dairy and could lead to deficiencies in essential nutrients, especially for vulnerable populations. Low-income groups who rely on federal programs benefit from dairy’s affordability, availability, and nutritional value.

Dairy offers equitable nutrition solutions, including lactose-free options, making it accessible to diverse populations. As the guidelines are developed, it’s crucial that science-based decisions, not flawed sustainability claims, determine the future of dairy in American diets.

Photo Credit:gettyimages-vm.jpg