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MyPyramid consists of six vertical color
bands, one for each of the five food groups
(grains, vegetables, fruits, milk, meat &
beans) and a sixth razor-thin band, added
to represent oils. For the first time, the
MyPyramid emphasizes the connection
between regular exercise and good health. An illustration of a person climbing steps along the left flank of MyPyramid speaks to the need for frequent physical activity.
Unlike its predecessor, MyPyramid does
not include specific portion sizes. Instead
consumers are encouraged to take a
personalized approach to healthy eating,
deciding which foods and how much to eat
based on three considerations: age, sex
and level of physical activity. At MyPyramid.gov anyone can use these three criteria to
call up a customized pyramid, one of 12 pre-designed versions, that includes portion recommendations for each food group.
The Impact on the Foodservice Industry
Though it’s too soon to know for sure, it is likely that the trend for customized meals will continue to grow, as the all-nutrition-is-personal view of eating, represented by MyPyramid, takes hold. Increasingly aware of their individual dietary needs, customers will feel empowered to request substitutions and a wider variety of nutritious options at every meal.
The trend toward customization represents an opportunity for operators who are flexible enough to let customers mix and match menu items or satisfy multiple requests for substitutions without losing their cool. Allowing customers to custom-create their own meals may soon add up to a significant competitive advantage. Now more than ever, operators can benefit from partnering with manufacturers who offer a broad range of ingredients, including nutrition-focused products that are reliable, delicious and have a great reputation with customers.
Kraft Products and the Guidelines
MyPyramid incorporates recommendations from the 2005 Dietary Guidelines for Americans.
The guidelines describe a healthy diet as one that emphasizes whole grains, fruits and vegetables. Kraft Foodservice helps operators meet increased demand for whole grains with favorites such as Nabisco crackers. Veryfine 100% fruit juice products are quality thirst-quenchers that also satisfy daily fruit requirements. Nutrient- and vitamin-rich nuts and seeds marketed under the Planters brand help customers to vary their daily protein intake.
For more information on MyPyramid and the government’s 2005 Dietary Guidelines for Americans, click here.
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