I’m currently conducting a blog series where each week I give an overview of the responsibilities of a government agency regulating our food and agriculture system. I think it’s a helpful reminder for everyone on just how complex our regulatory system really is. It’s a game of Who’s Who for government players in the U.S. food and agriculture economy.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (“USDA”) Center for Nutrition Policy and Promotion (“CNPP”) reports to the Under Secretary for Food, Nutrition and Consumer Services. CNPP was created in 1994 and sets forth dietary guidance linking scientific research to the nutrition needs of consumers. Structurally, CNPP has three divisions: (1) Nutrition Marketing and Communication Division, (2) Evidence Analysis Library Division, and (3) Nutrition Guidance and Analysis Division.
CNPP and Department of Health and Human Services work together to set forth the dietary guidelines. CNPP most notable program is MyPlate. MyPlate took the place of the old food pyramid and is based on the 2010 Dietary Guidelines.