Defining Protein Foods

Dairy foods constitute a significant portion of the protein intake among the U.S. population but are not included in the “protein foods group” of the current U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) MyPlate food guide. Although the “Health Benefits of Dairy” page on the MyPlate website briefly mentions protein as a component of dairy foods, because dairy is not listed with other protein foods, MyPlate suggests that dairy is an inferior protein source. However, the Digestible Indispensable Amino Acid Score (DIAAS), the current protein quality evaluation measure recommended by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and the World Health Organization (WHO), shows that dairy products include all nine essential amino acids and contain highly bioavailable and digestible protein. Therefore, the name “protein foods group” seems misleading. If protein content and quality are the determinants for placement in the protein group, then dairy belongs in that group with other protein‐rich foods. However, if other diet and nutrient‐based reasons prohibit the inclusion of dairy into this group, then the “protein foods group” name should be revised to reflect the role of its foods in a health‐promoting diet. Changing either the “protein foods group” name or its list of inclusive foods would provide important clarification regarding USDA recommendations for a balanced diet.