Create a Great Plate: MyPlate Dietary Guidelines

Gr 6 Up—This film clearly shows that the food pyramid is out and the plate is in, making it much easier for students to distinguish a nutritious meal from an unhealthy one. The plate is the new national USDA food icon, demonstrating better dietary choices for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The video is divided into five major segments which correspond to the sections of the "great plate": fruits, grains, vegetables, proteins, and dairy. Each section features enthusiastic students totally onboard with the new dietary information. The chapters explain these food groups, emphasizing the variety of choices in the guidelines and featuring eye-catching visuals. The differences and nutritional value of oils such as olive and canola compared to those high in saturated and trans fats are discussed. Highly informative and visually appealing, this video will definitely make a positive impression on students. The online teacher's guide will help facilitate classroom viewing. The USDA's Choosemyplate.gov website contains additional aids and materials to accommodate this program.—Sheila Acosta, Cody Public Library, San Antonio, TX