United Fresh Produce Association is committed to supporting the 2010 Dietary Guidelines Committee in recommending greater consumption of fruits and vegetables.

The Dietary Guidelines for Americans has been published every 5 years since 1980, by the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and the Department of Agriculture (USDA). The Guidelines provide authoritative advice for people two years and older about how good dietary habits can promote health and reduce risk for major chronic diseases as well as serve as the basis for Federal food and nutrition education programs.  The 2005 Dietary Guidelines already recommend the increased consumption of fruits and vegetables, and United Fresh will remain engaged to ensure this language of "eat more fruits and vegetables" remains in the 2010 Guidelines. United Fresh will also focus the attention of the committee on supporting the increased consumption of fresh fruits and vegetables.

United Fresh believes that the specific fruit and vegetable recommendations contained in the 2005 guidelines suggesting 5-13 servings of fruits and vegetables a day based on gender and age should be maintained, and that the committee should provide stronger and clearer advice about the importance of eating more fruits and vegetables every day.

United Fresh Testimony:

• Dr. Lorelei DiSogra E.d.D., R.D. Vice President, Nutrition & Health, Testimony before the Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee, January 29, 2009.