Should the Dietary Guidelines for Americans include sustainability? A critical perspective

Area of Science:

• Nutrition Science
• Environmental Science
• Public Health Policy

Background:

• The inclusion of sustainability in the Dietary Guidelines for Americans (DGA) has been a contentious issue since 1986.
• Past attempts, such as in 2010 and the 2015 Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee report, faced significant partisan opposition.
• The debate highlights unresolved controversies regarding evidence strength, appropriate communication venues, and broader policy implications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the historical evolution of incorporating sustainability into the DGA.
• To critically evaluate arguments for and against its inclusion.
• To propose pathways for advancing the conversation on nutrition and sustainability.

Main Methods:

• Perspective article analyzing the historical context and arguments.
• Critical appraisal of scientific evidence linking nutrition and sustainability.
• Examination of communication strategies and policy considerations.

Main Results:

• The nutrition-sustainability relationship involves trade-offs that require acknowledgment by all stakeholders.
• Current federal and clinical infrastructure is not adequately equipped to communicate the complexities of nutrition-sustainability science to the public.
• The DGA's potential impact on non-dietary policies has not been fully assessed.

Conclusions:

• A nuanced discussion of the evidence, communication methods, and policy integration is essential.
• Productive dialogue among nutrition professionals regarding scientific, messaging, and policy nuances is crucial.
• Without such dialogue, advocating for sustainability in the DGA may prove counterproductive.