Changes in 2011

Nutrition, physical activity, and health information is constantly evolving. New research is promising and many people are trying to live healthier lives. Here are some changes that we will see in 2011.

1. The new Dietary Guidelines for Americans will be released on Monday, January 31, 2011. A press conference will be held at 9:00 a.m. and the Dietary Guidelines website will be updated shortly after with the new information. The Dietary Guidelines for American are updated every five years and based on current research related to nutrition, physical activity, and health.
   
2. The Mypyramid graphic may be updated after the release of the 2010 Dietary Guidelines. Whereas the Dietary Guidelines are scientific in nature and not worded for the general public, Mypyramid is the consumer-friendly graphic based on the Dietary Guidelines for Americans.
3. Nutrition labels may become easier to read. "Nutrition Keys" will be on the front of packages, will be simple to read, and show how key nutrients fit into your overall eating plan. They will be phased in by the end of the year and the foods will continue to have the current nutrition labels on them as well.
4. Wal-Mart will make and sell healthier foods. Their plans are to reduce sugars and sodium in some foods, reduce produce prices, build stores in limited income areas that don't have stores, and develop a logo for healthier items.
   
5. Availability of local produce, community gardens, and greenhouses will keep improving. We are already seeing more Farmer's Markets as well as grocery stores and restaurants that use local fresh produce.