Cost of new food pyramid tested by economists. Results are mixed
statnews.com • • nation
Key Points:
- The new U.S. dietary guidelines emphasize increased protein intake and limiting ultra-processed foods, with officials claiming healthy meals can be made for around $3 using affordable whole foods like pork, eggs, dairy, fruits, and vegetables.
- Experts note that while avoiding ultra-processed foods and choosing whole foods can be affordable, the guidelines' inclusion of expensive items like ribeye steak and shrimp, along with higher protein recommendations, may increase food costs for many Americans.
- Affordability varies widely depending on income, location, and time available for meal preparation, with lower-income households and those in food deserts facing greater challenges in accessing and preparing healthy meals within budget.
- A dietitian's test of the guidelines using local grocery prices found that meeting the
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