Food Pyramid to Food Plate

New Orleans, LA – On this American birthday weekend, we salute the United States Department of Agriculture. After years of tinkering with the inexplicable food pyramid, they've finally brought nutrition imagery back to where it belongs: on a plate. The old and abstract concepts of pyramids and portions have inadvertently spread misinformation. Maybe this is why families, schools, and even our military struggle with persistent obesity. This new visual guide for daily recommended allowances will make it easier to eat right. Look for the USDA's new plate of food. It encourages families to consume more fresh fruits and vegetables, which you can always find at your region's farmers markets. For the Farmers Market Minute, this is Richard McCarthy.