USDA Launches New Dietary Guidelines Initiative

(Washington, D.C., March 4, 2026) – U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins, alongside U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., and National Nutrition Advisor Dr. Ben Carson, has announced the launch of the Dietary Guidelines for Americans Strategic Partnerships. This initiative invites the private sector to play a pivotal role in educating the public about the importance of the Dietary Guidelines and their critical role in promoting healthier eating habits.

<h2>Key Announcements from Today’s Event</h2>
<p>During the event, Secretary Rollins provided an update on the forthcoming Stocking Standards final rule. This new regulation will require retailers accepting Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits to meet higher minimum standards for staple food stocking. Additionally, Secretary Rollins signed <a href="https://www.fns.usda.gov/snap/waivers/foodrestriction">four new SNAP restriction waivers</a> for the states of Kansas, Nevada, Ohio, and Wyoming.</p>

<h2>Making Health a Priority</h2>
<p>“The Make America Healthy Again movement is uniting various sectors—including retailers, healthcare professionals, farmers, and the media—to foster healthier families and communities,” said Secretary Rollins. “Today’s announcement not only encourages private sector involvement in spreading awareness about the Dietary Guidelines but also extends SNAP restriction waivers to four additional states, emphasizing our commitment to ensuring that real food is the cornerstone of our nutritional standards.”</p>

<h2>A Focus on Real Food</h2>
<p>Secretary Kennedy emphasized the necessity for retailers accepting taxpayer dollars to prioritize wholesome food options. “SNAP exists to nourish vulnerable Americans—not to support products that contribute to chronic diseases. Today, we’re shifting the focus back to nutrition, providing millions of families with better access to genuine food products,” he stated.</p>

<h2>Practical Solutions for Healthier Choices</h2>
<p>Dr. Carson praised Secretary Rollins’ initiative, highlighting that the debate over minimum stocking standards in retailers has persisted for over a decade. “This impending rule offers practical solutions that are feasible and will provide families with healthier choices, regardless of where they shop. The introduction of these four new restriction waivers ensures that heavily processed junk food will not be eligible for SNAP purchases funded by taxpayers,” he added.</p>

<h2>Join the Movement</h2>
<p>Are you interested in becoming a strategic partner in this initiative? For more information, please contact the USDA team at <a href="mailto:DietaryGuidelines@usda.gov">DietaryGuidelines@usda.gov</a>.</p>

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