Every five years, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) jointly release the Dietary Guidelines for Americans (DGAs) to serve as the cornerstone for federal nutrition programs, nutrition standards and nutrition education initiatives. In the years leading up to the release of the DGAs the current body of nutrition science is evaluated to help inform the recommendations. The most recent iteration, the 2025-2030 DGA released in January 2026, prioritizes diets built on whole, nutrient-dense foods such as protein (including beef), dairy, vegetables, fruits, healthy fats, and whole grains.
“These new DGAs confirm what producers have long known, that beef belongs in a healthy, balanced diet,” said Registered Dietitian and nutrition scientist Dr. Shalene McNeill, executive director of nutrition science with the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, a contractor to the Beef Checkoff. “The guidance recognizes the importance of nutrient-dense, real, whole foods like beef for a healthy life.”
Beef is being recognized for providing an important source of high-quality protein and nine other essential nutrients like zinc, iron and B vitamins. As a staple food in Americans’ diets, beef can help offset nutrient deficiencies, particularly iron and vitamin B12, which are critical for vulnerable populations such as children and older adults.
“This is a great opportunity for beef farmers and ranchers because beef delivers key nutrients that many Americans need across all stages of life,” McNeill said.
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