Dairy still remains an important part of a healthy diet – as USDA’s MyPlate includes a glass to the side to represent the dairy group. Jean Ragalie – President of the National Dairy Council – says the location of dairy on the graphic really helps it stand out as an essential part of a healthy eating plan. One serving of nutrient-rich, low-fat or fat-free milk, cheese or yogurt has at least as much protein as an egg and actually contributes 18-percent of the protein in the American diet. National Milk Producers Federation President and CEO Jerry Kozak says Americans currently average two daily servings of dairy – but three servings are recommended.

Kozak says the simple visual metaphor emphasizes the importance of those three servings. America’s dairy farmers and processors commend the USDA for adding the dairy representation to the dinner plate to show how a healthy eating plan includes a serving of dairy at every meal. Milk Processor Education Program CEO Vivien Godfrey says milk provides a unique package of nine essential nutrients – and this tool will be a fresh reminder to all Americans as they sit down at their tables with their families.