Following World War Two, there was concern that Americans weren't getting enough protein, vitamins, and minerals in their diet. Government officials developed what they called the 'Basic Four Food Groups.' Later, in the 1950's, the government updated the information and called it the 'Daily Food Guide.' With continued scientific information about nutrition-- as well as about the harmful effects of some foods that previously were thought to be beneficial-- the food groups are continuing to evolve. In 1991, the U-S Department of Agriculture developed the 'Food Guide Pyramid,' which places food into six categories in the form of a pyramid, with the foods that are recommended to be consumed in the largest quantities and most often at the base of the pyramid. At the base are bread, cereals, rice, and pasta. Next up the pyramid are two groups that previously were lumped together: the vegetable group and the fruit group. Continuing up the scale are two more groups. Milk, yogurt, and cheese are in one group; meat, poultry, fish, dried beans, eggs, and nuts are in the second. This group reflects the recognition that there are alternate sources of protein to animal products that are as healthful, if not more so. The top of the pyramid contains fats, oils, and sweets, with the caution to 'use sparingly.' In addition, the pyramid includes symbols that urge caution in consuming foods with too much fat and added sugars.
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