WASHINGTON — Nearly half of Americans reported awareness of the new Dietary Guidelines for Americans 2025-2030 within the first three weeks of its Jan. 7 launch, according to a survey conducted by International Food Information Council (IFIC).  

“This survey captures a rare and important moment: when first impressions are taking shape and awareness is forming,” said Wendy Reinhardt Kapsak, president and chief executive officer of IFIC. “The speed at which Americans have heard about the new Dietary Guidelines is remarkable, yet awareness alone is not enough. The real work of eating real food begins with enhanced understanding, application, and building trust.” 

The survey found 47% of Americans reporting hearing about the updated Dietary Guidelines, which debuted an “inverted” food pyramid.

The pyramid recommends consumers should prioritize animal- and plant-protein, healthy fats from whole foods, and fruits and vegetables. Whole grains settled at the bottom of the pyramid, and refined grains were omitted.

Forty-seven percent reported seeing the Dietary Guidelines’ updated food pyramid during its initial launch; however, consumers felt they lacked a clear understanding of the pyramid’s recommendations. The survey noted 31% believe the pyramid communicates eating fruits and vegetables every day, whereas 12% believe the pyramid is pushing daily dairy consumption.

Additionally, 36% believe the food pyramid recommends prioritizing foods at the top of the pyramid and consuming less foods near its pointy tip. Eleven percent believe the opposite.

Amidst confusion about the DGA’s consumption recommendations, the survey found consumers gravitating toward what they do understand and what they feel they can afford, which is protein.

“Americans are looking for easy and realistic ways to eat healthier,” Reinhardt Kapsak said. “Protein stands out as something people feel confident that they can easily incorporate. Yet many believe healthier eating comes with a higher price tag. That tension is palpable.” 

Sixty-three percent said increased protein intake is a component to a healthier diet.

Alongside protein consumption, more than one in four Americans believe that adding more fruits and vegetables is a necessity for a healthy diet.

A small number of consumers believe a healthy diet is manageable by removing certain foods from their diets. Sixteen percent said they should consume less highly processed foods, and 12% said they should eat fewer products with added sugar.

Although 61% of Americans reported having a slight familiarity of the Dietary Guidelines overall, consumer opinion about the science supporting the Guidelines vary, according to IFIC.

“We’re seeing some consumers question the healthfulness of emerging food trends that have entered the national food and nutrition landscape,” Reinhardt Kapsak said. “This reinforces the need for clear, science-based communication that helps people make informed choices.” 

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