Jun 2, 2011

Plate replaces pyramid

USDA’s release today of a revamped “plate” graphic of dietary needs for consumers clearly illustrates that fruits and vegetables dominate the plate and should dominate our diets, according to the Produce Marketing Association (PMA).

USDA’s announcement marks the retirement of the “food pyramid” in favor of an easier-to-understand graphic in the form of a circular plate divided into wedges. USDA has shown consumers the importance of healthy and cost-effective nutrition by placing fruits and vegetables over half of the plate, according to PMA.

PMA’s research shows that the average price per serving across all produce was 28 cents for fruits and 21 cents for vegetables in the United States last year. A 2011 USDA pricing study found that an adult on a 2,000-calorie diet could satisfy recommendations for vegetable and fruit consumption in the 2010 Dietary Guidelines for Americans at an average price of $2 to $2.50 per day, or approximately 25 cents per edible half-cup equivalent.

For more information, visit www.pma.com.