Here’s what you need to know.
Foods Americans were warned about for decades are officially back in the conversation — following updated federal dietary guidance released under President Donald Trump’s administration.
For years, government nutrition advice pushed Americans away from full-fat dairy, red meat, butter, and other traditional foods. Now, updated federal guidance no longer broadly discourages these foods when they are consumed responsibly and in moderation.
According to the White House, the changes reflect updated science and a more balanced understanding of nutrition — not a free-for-all or a dramatic reversal of past advice.
Importantly, the guidance still urges Americans to limit highly processed foods, including packaged snacks and desserts that are high in saturated fat and added sugar.
Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. said the updated approach moves away from outdated thinking that unfairly blamed certain natural foods for health problems.
“Protein and healthy fats are essential,” Kennedy said, noting that earlier dietary rules often oversimplified complex nutrition science.
Below is a clear, practical breakdown of which foods are being reconsidered — and how experts say Americans should enjoy them safely.
Full-Fat Milk and Yogurt Return to the Menu
The updated 2025–2030 Dietary Guidelines for Americans now recognize full-fat milk and yogurt as acceptable sources of dietary fat when eaten in reasonable portions.
Federal guidance continues to recommend keeping saturated fat intake below 10 percent of daily calories. Officials note that limiting ultra-processed foods makes it much easier to stay within that range.
Nutrition experts explain that full-fat dairy contains fat-soluble vitamins — including vitamins A, D, E, and K — which the body absorbs more efficiently when natural fats are present.
Another benefit is satiety. Full-fat dairy may help people feel fuller longer, which can reduce unnecessary snacking. Still, portion control remains important, especially for individuals monitoring cholesterol or calorie intake.
Butter No Longer Off-Limits
Butter has been restored as an acceptable cooking fat, though federal guidelines still encourage Americans to prioritize unsaturated oils like olive oil when possible.
The updated recommendations acknowledge that butter and traditional animal fats can be used in moderation as part of home-cooked meals.
Butter naturally provides vitamin A for vision and immune support, vitamin E for antioxidant protection, and vitamin K2, which plays a role in bone health. It also contains butyric acid, a fatty acid associated with anti-inflammatory properties.
Experts caution, however, that butter is high in saturated fat. Individuals with elevated LDL cholesterol are advised to use it sparingly.
Beef Tallow Makes a Comeback
Once a staple in American kitchens, beef tallow is also being reconsidered.
Beef tallow contains vitamins A, D, E, and K, similar to other animal-based fats. About half of its fat content is monounsaturated fat, while the remainder is saturated fat.
That balance means portion size matters. While suitable for cooking, beef tallow should be used carefully to avoid exceeding daily saturated fat recommendations. Cost and availability may also limit regular use for many households.
Red Meat Re-Evaluated
Red meat is no longer broadly discouraged and remains an option within a balanced diet, alongside poultry, seafood, eggs, and plant-based proteins.
Red meat provides all nine essential amino acids, highly absorbable heme iron, and zinc — nutrients important for muscle health, energy levels, and immune function.
Federal guidance continues to recommend variety when it comes to protein choices. Rotating red meat with other protein sources helps keep saturated fat intake in check while maintaining nutritional balance.
The Bottom Line
The Trump administration’s updated dietary guidance reflects a shift toward moderation and common sense rather than rigid food rules.
Traditional, familiar foods can still have a place in a healthy lifestyle when eaten responsibly and combined with balanced choices.
As always, Americans are encouraged to consider their individual health needs — but for many families, the message is clear: real food, eaten wisely, is no longer the enemy.
