The Trump administration has delayed finalizing the Dietary Guidelines for Americans due to the ongoing federal government shutdown.
Typically updated every five years by USDA and the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), the guidelines shape school meals, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program purchases and medical nutrition advice. Originally expected by late October, the new edition is now projected for December.
This update may include proposals from HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. promoting higher saturated fat consumption under the Make America Healthy Again initiative. His stance conflicts with current scientific recommendations from the American Heart Association and HHS, which warn that high saturated fat intake increases risk for heart disease. Industry groups also fear consumer confusion over classifications of “ultra-processed foods,” adding to the growing debate.
