In 2011, the USDA replaced the Food Pyramid with MyPlate, which was based on USDA dietary guidelines. The original Food Pyramid brazenly stressed that “meat” and “dairy” products should be a vital part of the American diet, regardless of whether there was evidence showing they lead to cancer and other metabolic problems.
MyPlate, however, is even more deceptive as it relates to how much animal product should be in your diet.
MyPlate has four sections: fruits, vegetables, grains and protein. The deception is that “meat” has been left out, but it is really there in disguise. MyPlate is subtly suggesting that protein must be acquired independent of fruits, vegetables and grains, which implies that you must consume animal flesh and/or cheese to get adequate amounts of protein.
Of course, that could not be farther from the truth, as vegans can get more than enough protein without animal products. I have been meeting my protein needs for 31 years, without any animal flesh in my body.
For some reason dairy has its own separate little section, which is now in a glass. That is a shrewd move on the dairy industry’s part, implying there’s something “special” about dairy that makes it a necessity, although no animals require milk after infancy. Obviously there’s absolutely nothing essential or special about dairy. (Since the USDA subsidizes the dairy industry, we must assume it had some hand in this).
Whether “MyPlate” or “Food Pyramid,” both urge you to consume animal products, which is totally unnecessary for vitality. The key is to focus on your fruits, vegetables and grains for metabolic strength. If you feel you must have animal products, they must be consumed sparingly.
