Dietary Guidelines Fight: Ag groups hope the new Administration will look at previous guidelines

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) plans to release new dietary guidelines this year. However, ag groups across different sectors are worried the draft guidelines released last fall could become a reality.

The Advisory Committee recommended focusing on less red meat in favor of plant-based proteins. The National Pork Producers Council (NPPC) has concerns and says the recommendations do not support human health and nutrition. The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) previously called the move a solution in search of a problem.

“While U.S. pork producers are committed to supporting human health and nutrition with safe, wholesome, and nutritious protein, the Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee’s recommendations do not,” said Rob Brenneman, NPPC Vice President and pork producer from Washington, Iowa. “Our nation’s health is at risk, as these Guidelines inform all federal nutrition programs – including those affecting our schoolchildren and the military – and provide recommendations to health professionals. We urge this Committee to do the right thing: follow the science.”

Related Stories
USDA Undersecretary Luke Lindberg told RFD-TV News that we can only guess what Congress will do down the road. Still, the USDA recognizes its responsibility to spend resources efficiently and effectively.
Tight feeder supplies and lower placements indicate continued support for the cattle market, with regional impacts heightened in Texas by reduced feeder imports.
National Land Realty’s Jeramy Stephens shares his outlook on farmland market trends, which remain under close watch as new federal assistance programs roll out — with experts analyzing potential impacts on land values, buying, and stability.
Jeff Johnston with CoBank’s Knowledge Exchange explains the growing role of Rural America in supporting the nation’s digital infrastructure.
NRECA CEO Jim Matheson reacts to the U.S. House’s passage of the SPEED Act, which aims to streamline federal permitting for energy and infrastructure projects, and discusses its potential impact on rural communities.
Callahan is no stranger to agricultural trade and has been with the U.S. Trade Representative’s office since 2016.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig discusses market conditions, policy priorities, and his outlook for agriculture moving forward.
NEFB President Mark McHargue recaps the Farm Bureau’s Annual Convention, producer sentiment in Nebraska, and discusses key issues facing agriculture.
Congressman Dusty Johnson of South Dakota joined us to discuss key ag policy developments and his outlook for agriculture in 2026.
House Agriculture Committee Democrats are calling for action on the Farm and Family Relief Act, warning that proposed SNAP cost shifts to states could reduce food assistance for low-income families amid ongoing tariffs and trade disruptions that continue to strain U.S. farmers.
Expanded school access to whole milk provides modest but reliable demand support for U.S. dairy producers.
StockShowAuctions.com takes us to the Midland County Junior Livestock Show in West Texas, where young producers are showcasing their dedication, skill, and champion livestock.
Agriculture Shows
Special 3-part series tells the story of the Claas family’s legacy, which changed agriculture forever.
From soil to harvest. Top Crop is an all-new series about four of the best farmers in the world—Dan Luepkes, of Oregan, Illinois; Cory Atley, of Cedarville, Ohio; Shelby Fite, of Jackson Center, Ohio; Russell Hedrick, of Hickory, North Carolina—reveals what it takes for them to make a profitable crop. It all starts with good soil, patience, and a strong planter setup.
Champions of Rural America is a half-hour dive into the legislative priorities for Rural America. Join us as we interview members of the Congressional Western Caucus to learn about efforts in Washington to preserve agriculture and tackles the most important topics in the ag industry on Champions of Rural America!
Featuring members of Congress, federal and state officials, ag and food leaders, farmers, and roundtable panelists for debates and discussions.