By Jamie Martin
The National Potato Council (NPC) has voiced strong opposition against the recent recommendations from the Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee (DGAC).
The DGAC suggested that Americans should cut down on their intake of starchy vegetables, a proposal that has not been well-received by the NPC.
Kam Quarles, CEO of the NPC, expressed concerns, stating, "While the advisory committee acknowledges the overwhelming and clear evidence that Americans do not eat enough vegetables, the panel’s report reduces the starchy vegetable consumption recommendation. This conclusion is unsupported by nutritional science and will confuse consumers." He emphasized that the USDA and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) should focus more on promoting vegetable intake across the board rather than cutting down specific types like potatoes.
The NPC was, however, pleased with the Advisory Committee’s decision not to categorize starchy vegetables with grains.
Quarles highlighted the significance of this decision for affordability and nutritional value in school meals and other programs, "Potatoes are a vegetable. Period.
Despite some initial views to the contrary, we are pleased the full committee rejected attempts to place potatoes and other starchy vegetables in a different food category."
As the USDA and HHS progress towards finalizing the 2025 Dietary Guidelines for Americans, the NPC urges them to reconsider and discard the controversial starchy vegetable recommendation, advocating for a balanced and scientifically supported approach to nutrition that includes potatoes as a vital part of the American diet.
Photo Credit: istock-martijnvandernat
Categories: National