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Controversy is already brewing around Canada’s revamped food guide that will be made public soon.
The highly anticipated makeover is said to be far more focused on plant-based proteins, which in recent years have seen a surge in popularity.
That plant-based popularity is in contrast with the current food guide, that recommends four full servings of dairy products, including milk and cheese, every single day.
The lobby group representing the Dairy Farmers of Canada is now voicing its concern over the new food guide’s turn towards plant-based protein, claiming the decision could have a detrimental impact on future generations.
The direction proposed by the new Food Guide is not evidence-based, and could have further long-lasting consequences on a sector that has already been placed in a difficult position by this Government.https://t.co/hi04u0fuPt @JustinTrudeau #Cdndairy #Cdnpoli @GPTaylorMRD
— DFC PLC (@dfc_plc) January 4, 2019
“Not only will this harm the dairy sector and the hundreds of thousands who depend upon it for their livelihoods, it also risks harming Canadian consumers by creating confusion about the nutritional value of dairy,” said its president Pierre Lampron.
Health Canada's new food guide is not based on research from the food industry, but instead, on evidence recognized by international organizations.
While the department says animal-based proteins are nutritious, the new food guide will focus more on eating more plant-based foods.
“Regular intake of plant-based foods, so vegetables, fruit, whole grains, and these plant-based proteins can have positive effects on health,” said Hasan Hutchinson with Health Canada, noting cardiovascular disease is a particular concern.
The new food guide will also refer to lean meats, poultry and other animal-based foods as examples of nutritious choices.
Health Canada's Food Guide was last revised in 2007.
With files from the Canadian Press.
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