New U.S. Dietary Guidelines Highlight Plant Protein While Falling Short on Nuanced Dietary Pattern Recommendations

The U.S. Dietary Guidelines for Americans (DGAs) play a pivotal role in shaping federal nutrition policy, shaping standards and purchasing across programs like school meals and SNAP, and influencing which foods are prioritized across a vast public health landscape. 

The Plant Based Foods Association and Plant Based Foods Institute welcome today’s release of the 2025-2030 Dietary Guidelines and their emphasis on prioritizing high-quality, nutrient-dense foods. The updated guidance reinforces several evidence-based recommendations that align with the nutritional benefits inherent in many plant-based foods, such as being a high-quality source of protein and fiber while being naturally cholesterol-free and low in added sugar and saturated fat.

Research has consistently shown that plant-based foods such as fortified dairy alternatives and fiber-rich veggie burgers can help people in all stages of life maintain a healthy weight, meet their daily nutrient needs, reduce the risk of diabetes, and protect against many of the health conditions that are currently of concern in the United States. 

At the same time, we are concerned that the final guidelines do not fully reflect the Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee’s evidence-based scientific recommendations, particularly with respect to the role of plant-forward dietary patterns in supporting health across the lifespan. The Dietary Guidelines aim to support and facilitate Americans’ ability to make healthier food choices through public policies that reflect scientific evidence and the evolving food environment. Plant-based foods and diets are an essential part of the goal of improving the health of Americans, especially considering potential nutrient shortfalls in diets that do not prioritize a diverse array of plant-based foods. 

“U.S. plant-based food companies are dedicated to providing delicious, nutrient-dense products that help Americans meet their dietary needs and preferences,” said Marjorie Mulhall, executive director of the Plant Based Foods Association. “We are glad to see the updated Dietary Guidelines recommend that plant-based proteins be prioritized as part of a healthy diet.”

“Stronger plant-forward guidance could advance public health while also serving as an economic opportunity for U.S. agriculture,” said Sanah Baig, executive director of the Plant Based Foods Institute. “Increased recognition of the important role plant-based protein- and fiber-rich foods have in our diets can help growers expand their farming operations, build durable markets for American-grown pulses and other crops, and keep more food dollars circulating in rural communities. ”

PBFA and PBFI look forward to working with federal and state decision-makers as well as American producers to ensure that plant-based foods are fully leveraged in improving both diet quality and in supporting the economic strength of U.S. farmers and food businesses alike.