Consume a variety of nutrient-dense foods within and among the basic food groups while choosing foods that limit the intake of saturated fat, trans fat, cholesterol, added sugars, salt, and alcohol.

Nutrient density: the nutrient content of the packages was increased and the energy content was decreased, leading to an increase in nutrient density

Food groups: foods included from each food group

Variety: choices allowed within the food groups

Food energy: reduced-calorie options allowed for some foods

Limiting intakes: packages provide much smaller amounts of saturated fat and cholesterol and slightly less salt, and food specifications place certain restrictions on added sugars and added salt. The current and revised food packages contain insignificant amounts of industrial trans fats—the source of trans fat deemed to be of concern by the Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee (DHHS/ USDA, 2004).

Meet recommended intakes within energy needs by adopting a balanced eating pattern

Balanced eating pattern: The revised packages are more consistent with food group guidance.

To maintain body weight in a healthy range, balance food energy from foods and beverages with energy expended

Full-fat milk products^a and added sugars limited

Reduced maximum quantities of foods that previously exceeded recommendations

To prevent gradual body weight gain over time, make small decreases in food energy from food and beverages and increase physical activity

Small decreases in total food energy provided by the packages

Consume a sufficient amount of fruits and vegetables while staying within energy needs

Fruits and vegetables: added to all the food packages beginning with infants age 6 mo and older

Choose a variety of fruits and vegetables each day.

Variety: choice allowed