The Trump administration has issued a significant update to the official dietary guidelines for Americans, placing a strong emphasis on consuming whole foods and launching a direct assault on added sugars. The new advice was presented at a White House briefing on Wednesday, 7 January 2026.
A Clear Message: Prioritise Real Food
Robert F Kennedy Jr, the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS), alongside Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins, unveiled the streamlined recommendations. The core message, delivered by Kennedy, was unequivocal: "eat real food." The guidelines urge the public to focus on high-quality protein, healthy fats, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains while actively avoiding ultra-processed products laden with additives.
"Today, our government declares war on added sugar," Kennedy stated. He emphasised that foods high in additives, excess salt, and added sugar are detrimental to health and should be minimised. This stance is a central pillar of his "Make America Healthy Again (Maha)" agenda.
Streamlined Format and a New Visual Guide
In a departure from previous versions, the new guidance is notably concise. Unlike the extensive 2020 guidelines, which spanned nearly 150 pages, the latest core recommendations are limited to just a few pages, fulfilling a pledge by Kennedy. Detailed research and justifications are provided in separate supplemental documents.
The update also introduces a fresh visual framework. A key feature is a reimagined food pyramid, presented as an inverted shape. This new pyramid places meats and vegetables at the widest point at the top, a direct reversal of the classic model that long dominated nutritional advice in the United States.
Specific Advice on Fats and Chronic Disease Prevention
Beyond the broad focus on whole foods, the guidelines offer specific direction on fat consumption. When adding fats to meals, Americans are advised to prioritise oils rich in essential fatty acids, such as olive oil. The recommendations also note that other options like butter or beef tallow can be included, aligning with Kennedy's publicly stated views against the use of many seed oils.
Administration officials argue that following this updated guidance can help prevent or slow the progression of chronic diseases. This potential for improving long-term public health outcomes is a fundamental theme of the broader Maha movement driving the policy shift.
