MyPlate

We all have our own methods and traditions for selecting fresh produce, especially as the weather gets warmer and our stores and markets are full of fresh seasonal offerings. Whether it’s smelling the rind or checking the firmness of the skin, these age-old practices are all designed to help pick...

In celebration of Cinco de Mayo last week, we here at the Food and Nutrition Service had the chance to participate in the 22 nd National Cinco de Mayo Festival® Latinos Living Healthy Feria de Salud, sponsored by the League of Latino American Citizens (LULAC). The exciting event, held on the...

Good nutrition is vital to optimal infant and toddler growth, development, and health. The importance of this age group has been emphasized by First Lady Michelle Obama, who said that “If our kids get into the habit of getting up and playing, if their palates warm up to veggies at an early age, and...

During the month of April we will take a closer look at USDA’s Groundbreaking Research for a Revitalized Rural America, highlighting ways USDA researchers are improving the lives of Americans in ways you might never imagine, such as laying the foundation for evidence-based food and nutrition...

Earth Day is a reminder that some of our best moments can be spent in the great outdoors. Getting outside is one of the best ways to feel re-invigorated, whether on a short hike to the Crags Trail on Pike National Forest or on a longer exploration of the 2,175-mile Appalachian Trail, which winds...

The 2014 Farm Bill has already set in motion and accomplished so much for our country. With historic support for specialty crop producers across the country, the bill will touch every one of our lives through one of the most basic of human needs: food. Specialty crops make up the bulk of what we eat...

The MyPlate On Campus initiative, USDA’s effort to promote healthy eating on college campuses nationwide through peer-to-peer education, launched 1 year ago. In that time, nearly 2,000 students, representing all 50 states, have joined the cause by becoming MyPlate On Campus Ambassadors . It has been...

Grandkids are a grandparent’s greatest treasure. From time to time during grandchildren’s young lives, grandparents may have the pleasure of being their caregiver. Show them how to be healthy, including how to make healthy food choices--an important way grandparents show how much they love and care...

Who will represent your state at the 3 rd Annual White House Kids' State Dinner? It could be your child showing off his or her creativity and culinary talents in front of the First Lady and people from around the country. First Lady Michelle Obama, the USDA, the U.S. Department of Education, and...

“Eat more fruits and vegetables.” “Choose a variety of protein foods like lean meat and poultry, eggs, beans, peas and unsalted nuts and seeds.” “Make at least half your grains whole grains.” “Reduce Sodium intake to 2300 mg.” These are just some of the nutrition recommendations that are the...