Today, Explained RFK Jr.'s new food pyramid
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Jan 16, 2026 
Jane Black, a food journalist known for her insights on nutrition, teams up with Liz Dunn, a contributor to top publications, to dissect RFK Jr.'s new dietary guidelines. They explore the controversial flipped food pyramid and its mixed messages on saturated fats. Jane critiques industry influence on guidelines while Liz predicts food trends for 2026, including rising protein popularity and sugary drink consumption. Their conversation highlights how changing consumer behavior and wellness culture are reshaping our diets.
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Pyramid Reversed, Messaging Mixed
- The new federal dietary graphic flips past guidance, placing meat, dairy, and eggs prominently while shrinking grains.
- This shift highlights a rhetorical focus on "whole, nutrient-dense foods" despite mixed messaging on fats.
Visuals Clash With Numeric Limits
- The guidelines visually promote saturated-fat-rich foods while keeping the 10% saturated fat limit in text.
- That contradiction leaves consumers unclear how to reconcile images with numeric recommendations.
Prepare For Stricter Sugar Limits For Kids
- The guidelines cut recommended added-sugar limits and set zero added sugar for children under 10.
- Parents should prepare for stricter recommendations affecting celebrations and children's treats.