RFK Jr.'s new food pyramid - Today, Explained Recap

Podcast: Today, Explained

Published: 2026-01-16

Duration: 26 minutes

Guests: Jane Black

Summary

Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has introduced a revised food pyramid as part of new federal dietary guidelines, prioritizing whole nutrient-dense foods and ending the war on saturated fats while declaring war on ultra-processed foods and added sugars.

What Happened

Robert F. Kennedy Jr., as the Secretary of Health and Human Services, announced a revamped food pyramid, shifting the focus towards whole nutrient-dense foods. The new guidelines emphasize the consumption of whole foods, with saturated fats like cheese, eggs, and steak now at the top, and whole grains pushed to the bottom.

The revised pyramid has sparked confusion due to seemingly conflicting messages about saturated fats. While the guidelines promote whole foods, they also suggest that saturated fats are no longer discouraged, which has not been reconciled with previous health advice.

Jane Black, a food journalist, notes the inconsistency in the messaging, citing that for years, saturated fats have been linked to higher cholesterol and heart disease risk. The guidelines still recommend that saturated fat be limited to 10% of daily intake, yet they also suggest enjoying foods like cheeseburgers.

Grains have been notably downgraded in the new pyramid, signaling a shift from previous recommendations like those in the Obama administration's MyPlate, which emphasized whole grains. The new guidelines also target added sugars, particularly for children under 10, advocating for zero added sugar intake.

The Trump administration had already started focusing on food priorities, pushing for changes like the reintroduction of whole milk in schools and advocating for less use of food dyes. RFK Jr.'s guidelines continue this trend by targeting ultra-processed foods.

The new guidelines underscore the importance of unbiased science in their recommendations. However, there's controversy given that some recommendations, like increased meat and dairy consumption, are backed by industry-funded studies, which raises questions about bias.

Despite the bold changes, implementing these guidelines will face practical challenges, particularly in public institutions like schools, which may struggle with budget constraints when trying to increase protein-rich foods in meals.

Jane Black highlights how RFK Jr. has successfully garnered attention for these dietary changes, but the long-term impact remains uncertain due to the complexities of changing eating habits and the affordability of healthier options.

Key Insights