MyPlate

A solution to many health problems, including obesity, is for citizens to embrace a culture of healthy choices as their normal way of life. In order for this to happen, healthy choices must be easily understood.

MyPlate is part of a larger communications initiative 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. The plate is divided into sections representing the type and amount of food needed for healthy choices.

Key Behaviors of Healthy Choices

• Choose healthy snacks.
• 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.
• Cut back on added sugars.