New U.S. Dietary Guidelines Highlight Full-Fat Dairy and Real Foods
The Edge Dairy Farmer Cooperative, recognized as the second-largest milk cooperative in the United States by volume, has endorsed the newly released 2025–2030 Dietary Guidelines for Americans. These guidelines were introduced by the U.S. Departments of Health and Human Services and Agriculture. The revised guidelines emphasize the consumption of whole, nutrient-dense foods, indicating a renewed institutional backing for core agricultural sectors, including dairy.
The updated guidelines suggest that Americans should focus on consuming protein-rich foods, fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats. They discourage highly processed products laden with refined sugars, refined fats, artificial ingredients, and complex ingredient lists. As part of a balanced diet, dairy products are recommended, with an emphasis on three daily servings of full-fat options without added sugars.
In official communications from the USDA, Secretary Brooke Rollins highlighted that this policy shift aims to reconnect nutrition guidance with real food production, supporting farmers and ranchers. This alignment of federal nutrition priorities with domestic agricultural output is intended to enhance rural economic vitality.
Heidi Fischer, President of Edge Dairy Farmer Cooperative, stated that the inclusion of dairy in the guidelines validates farmers' long-standing messages about the nutrient density and value of whole dairy foods. She noted that the nutritional profile of dairy products, including vitamins, minerals, healthy fats, and high-quality protein, aligns with consumer and public health priorities.
For international dairy stakeholders, including producers and commodity analysts, this policy update could reshape domestic demand paradigms. With federal guidelines influencing school meals and public campaigns, the renewed endorsement of dairy products, especially full-fat categories, may support consumption trends and market stability for both U.S. and export-oriented dairy sectors.
