New USDA Guidelines for Children

New USDA dietary guidelines for children released September 29 recommend four cups of fruit and vegetables every day, with a focus on eating more fruits. A website accompanied the launch, featuring a computer game, coloring page and worksheet. Although the children’s pyramid was applauded by produce and food associations, it was described as “as ineffective as the adult version” by the nonprofit Center for Science in the Public Interest (CSPI). “MyPyramid for Kids, like the adult MyPyramid, fails to convey the otherwise sensible advice found in the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, and is emblematic of an Administration that has no real commitment to improving Americans' diets,” said CSPI executive director Michael F. Jacobson. "My Pyramid for Kids doesn't dare to discourage children from consuming so much soda, fast food, candy and other junk foods."