“The American Bakers Association commends USDA, HHS, and especially First Lady Michelle Obama for developing the new healthy eating icon based on the sound science of the new dietary guidelines. Consumers are struggling to find simple, clear and easy to follow directives. The new icon is a powerful tool to help adults, parents and their children integrate healthy and sensible eating habits into their daily lives. Appropriately, grains occupy a large portion on the plate – a reaffirmation of grains as the foundation of a healthy lifestyle,” said ABA President & CEO Robb MacKie.
“It is fitting that on the 70th Anniversary of the enrichment of flour, the new icon recognizes the importance of enriched grains. Enriched grains are responsible for eradicating pellagra and beriberi from the US population. The CDC recently recognized folic acid fortification as one of the top ten public health achievements of the 21st century for helping dramatically reduce neural tube defects in babies.”
“ABA looks forward to working with USDA and HHS to educate consumers about the new icon and how to use it to make healthy eating choices. The icon and supporting science will be integrated into our ongoing educational efforts promoting the benefits of enriched and whole grain foods as the foundation of a healthy lifestyle.”
About the American Bakers Association:
The American Bakers Association (ABA) is the Washington D.C.-based voice of the wholesale baking industry. Since 1897, ABA has represented the interests of bakers before the U.S. Congress, federal agencies, and international regulatory authorities. ABA advocates on behalf of more than 700 baking facilities and baking company suppliers. ABA members produce bread, rolls, crackers,bagels, sweet goods, tortillas and many other wholesome, nutritious, baked products for America’s families. The baking industry generates more than $70 billion in economic activity annually and employs close to half a million highly skilled people.
Source: American Bakers Association