Members of the Texas Nutritional Advisory Committee have given approval of the first nutritional guidelines as a part of a state initiative aimed at reshaping nutrition guidance and addressing the health effects of ultra-processed foods.
The Texas Nutrition Advisory Committee (TNAC) is a pillar of the “Make Texas Healthy Again” initiative created by state lawmakers through Senate Bill 25 last year. Gov. Greg Abbott appointed the board members.
By law, the committee is required to examine “the impact of nutrition on human health and the connection between ultra-processed foods and the prevalence of chronic diseases”; provide “an independent review of scientific studies analyzing the effects of ultra-processed foods on human health” and “education on the effects of ultra-processed foods on human health”; and develop and maintain “dietary and nutritional guidelines.”
They then report on their work and present nutritional guidelines and recommendations, which are then published by the Department of State Health Services (DSHS).
Earlier this month, the committee announced publication of its first nutritional guidelines, writing that they were “created by Texans for Texans.”
The guidelines suggest Texans fill half their plates with vegetables and fruit every meal; eat three or more servings of healthy protein a day; include healthy fats in their meals; eat whole grains; choose foods with nutrients to help build healthy bones and teeth; and avoid or reduce sugar-sweetened beverages.
“These new nutritional guidelines translate the science into practical steps Texans can use to support their health and well-being,” said TNAC Chair Jaclyn Albin, MD. “At the same time, we recognize that healthy eating has to work in the real world. It isn’t about perfection. Starting with one or two realistic changes and building from there can make healthy eating more achievable and sustainable for Texans and their families.”
The full dietary guidelines can be found here.
SB 25 author State Sen. Lois Kolkhorst (R-Brenham) said that the guidelines are “key” to improving “food and nutritional literacy” in Texas and addressing the root cause of chronic health issues.
Kolkhorst highlighted statistics showing that currently the U.S. healthcare system spends $4.5 trillion annually, and that 90 percent of that amount is directed towards chronic and mental health conditions. SB 25 also “expands physical education in elementary and middle school, enhances nutrition education at all levels, and requires food manufacturers to label foods that contain certain ingredients.”
“What we teach about nutrition in our classrooms – from kindergarten through college, including the education of our healthcare professionals – will move the healthcare needle,” Kolkhorst said. “When people understand what strengthens their health, they are empowered to make better choices for themselves and their families.”
Members of the committee also created a framework that helps translate the nutritional guidelines into real life and an outline for Texas educators regarding nutrition education requirements. The guidelines will be taught in grades K-12 beginning the 2027-28 school year. Higher education and medical institutions will also be required to provide nutrition instruction beginning throughout 2027.
An annual report is also required to be given to the governor, the lieutenant governor, the speaker of the house, and each standing committee with jurisdiction over health and safety that includes a summary of scientific studies, nutritional guidelines that incorporate new scientific findings, and any additional recommendations deemed “appropriate based on new scientific studies.”
The report submitted by the committee can be viewed here. The board’s next meeting will take place November 16 in Austin.
