The United States Department of Agriculture [USDA] recently issued a new communication initiative based on 2010 Dietary Guidelines for Americans to help consumers make better food choices.   MyPlate is designed to remind Americans to eat healthfully; it is not intended to change consumer behavior alone. MyPlate illustrates the five food groups using a familiar mealtime visual, a place setting.

·       Enjoy your food, but eat less ·       Avoid oversized portions ·       Make half your plate fruits and vegetables ·       Switch to fat-free or low-fat 1% milk ·       Make at least half your grains whole grains ·       Compare sodium in foods like soup, bread and frozen meals – and choose foods with lower numbers ·       Drink water instead of sugary drinks

Students, staff and parents in Aldine will see the MyPlate logo on every serving line, but with a slightly different message. “What’s on Your Plate” will be added to the logo to remind people to think about and observe what they are eating. This approach will serve as an educational tool for all schools. It will also emphasize the fact that it is not always about what is offered on a menu, but what someone chooses to eat that makes the difference.