The release of the new Dietary Guidelines for Americans marks a significant moment for the produce industry and the nutrition community, reaffirming what decades of science have shown: fruits and vegetables are foundational to healthful eating patterns and long-term well-being.

The guidelines place fruits and vegetables in a prominent position, emphasizing their role in supporting overall health, chronic disease prevention, and nutrient adequacy across the lifespan.

This clear, consistent message reinforces the importance of making fruits and vegetables more accessible and appealing, central to the way Americans eat throughout the day.

“The new US Dietary Guidelines place fruits and vegetables in a prominent position and make it clear that consumers should be including them in what they eat every day,” said Lauren M. Scott, president of The Foundation for Fresh Produce.

This guidance strongly aligns with the Foundation’s mission, as they aim to help consumers, health professionals, and nutrition educators understand how they can increase fruit and vegetable consumption in every meal occasion.

By elevating fruits and vegetables as essential components of meals and snacks, the guidelines open the door for innovation in merchandising, marketing, and nutrition communications.

Globally, the updated Dietary Guidelines are well aligned with fruit and vegetable recommendations from health agencies around the world.

“Across cultures and eating patterns, the evidence is consistent: fruits and vegetables are essential to health, longevity, and disease prevention,” said Dr. Jelena Gligorijević, chief medical officer for The Foundation for Fresh Produce.

For the produce industry, these guidelines present opportunities to collaborate with health professionals, educators, retailers, and foodservice partners to translate science into action, meeting consumers where they are.

“Even with clear guidance, most Americans still aren’t eating enough fruits and vegetables,” said Emily Holdorf, MS, RDN, CDN, community and influencer manager of The Foundation for Fresh Produce.

The Foundation is focused on equipping health professionals with ready-to-use, consumer-friendly resources that help turn science into everyday choices.

As the nation looks ahead, “The real work starts now,” says Scott, as The Foundation remains committed to working alongside its donors, industry leaders, and nutrition partners to bring the Dietary Guidelines to life.

Together, the produce and nutrition communities can leverage this guidance to inspire confidence, spark curiosity, and ultimately increase fruit and vegetable consumption.