Americans need more protein on their plates

Americans need more protein on their dinner plates, according to the latest dietary guidelines.

The Scientific Committee report recommends all age groups, especially young kids and pregnant or nursing mothers should add seafood and other animal proteins to their diets.

Dairy, fresh fruits, veggies, and nuts were also high on that list.

They say that it can help fight chronic illness and heart disease, both common health issues for Americans.

The report also found the pandemic played a major role in food insecurity. This year, more than 40 million Americans did not have enough food.

Dieticians are helping shed light on the nutritional benefits of fresh pork. The Pork Checkoff is adapting to the changing technology and is now sharing that information with dieticians.

According to the Pork Board’s Director of Nutrition and Dietetics, Kara Behlke, “We know dieticians have always played a vital role in public health, but as people have become more interested in health eating and boosting their immune system and just general health, dieticians have more opportunities than ever to share their knowledge with a wider audience, and the Pork Checkoff will continue to support and grow our relationship with dieticians and continue to influence consumer decision.”

The Pork Checkoff has been going virtual this year, sharing the benefits of pork through online conferences and social media.

Related Stories
Chad Rezniek with the Colorado AgrAbility Project joined us as part of National Farm Safety and Health Week to discuss the growing need for behavioral health support in rural communities.
Lower inventories and cautious farrowing plans suggest tighter hog supplies into 2026, keeping producer margins sensitive to demand trends and health risks.
Farm work is hard work, and as the harvest season brings heavier workloads, experts are urging producers to pay closer attention to joint pain and ways to prevent it.
Industry-wide participation in SHIP enhances biosecurity and fosters global trust in U.S. pork, says swine health expert, Dr. Christine Mainquist-Whigham.
National Education Center for Ag Safety Director Dan Neenan joins us to discuss grain bin safety and the steps producers can take to prevent tragedies.
As National Advisor, Carson will counsel both President Trump and Secretary Rollins on nutrition, healthcare access in rural areas, and housing. He will also serve as a key member of the MAHA Commission.
Kevin Charleston with Specialty Risk Insurance joined us Tuesday to share his perspective on farm safety and risk management during fall harvest.
Theresa Long and Theresa Pittman joined us on behalf of the AgriSafe Network to discuss the health and social issues impacting families in agriculture.