WASHINGTON, DC - The International Fresh Produce Association (IFPA) commented on the release of the 2025 Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee’s (DGAC) Scientific Report, a culmination of nearly two years of work, supported by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the United States Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). The report highlights the critical importance of incorporating fruits and vegetables into a healthy, dietary pattern for Americans across the lifespan, but proposes a reduction of starchy vegetables in the diet.

“We deeply appreciate the scientific advisory committee’s tireless work and are pleased to see that the DGAC’s report highlights the importance of consuming fruits and vegetables as part of a healthy dietary pattern for all Americans but are concerned by the proposed reduction in starchy vegetables which contribute key nutrients for various populations at different life stages when prepared with minimal or no added sugars, sodium, or saturated fat. At a time when Americans are not meeting recommendations for fruits and vegetables, it is critical that the 2025-2030 DGA strengthen recommendations for consumption of nutrient-dense foods like fruits and vegetables,” said Mollie Van Lieu, IFPA Vice President for Nutrition and Health.

IFPA, the largest and most diverse international association serving the entire fresh produce supply chain, has been fully immersed in the process to develop the 2025-2030 Dietary Guidelines for Americans (DGA) since it began. According to a press release, IFPA provided feedback on the proposed scientific questions to be reviewed by the DGAC, successfully nominated three members of the DGAC, and submitted oral and written comments to the departments throughout the process to strengthen recommendations related to fruit and vegetable consumption.

Based on nationally representative consumption data, only one in 10 Americans meet the daily dietary recommendations for fruits and vegetables. Furthermore, six in 10 Americans have at least one chronic condition and four in 10 have two or more, many of which are nutrition related.

“Reversing the nation’s diet-related diseases demands a systemic approach targeted at increasing Americans’ consumption of fruits and vegetables and our members at IFPA are passionate about closing the produce consumption gap,” added Van Lieu. “Through advocacy and consumer engagement, we remain committed to supporting the implementation of the Dietary Guidelines for Americans and driving increased fruit and vegetable consumption.”

The DGAC’s Scientific Report will inform the 2025-2030 Dietary Guidelines for Americans (DGA) which are expected to be released by USDA and HHS in 2025. The DGA set nutrition standards for federal nutrition programs, like the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) and the National School Breakfast and Lunch Programs.

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