Texas Nutrition Advisory Committee Releases First Nutritional Guidelines

Established under Senate Bill 25 last year and initiated by state lawmakers, TNAC operates as a key component of the “Make Texas Healthy Again” initiative. Members of the committee were appointed by Governor Greg Abbott.

As mandated by law, the committee examines how nutrition affects health, investigates the link between ultra-processed foods and chronic diseases, reviews scientific studies on these foods, educates the public about their effects, and develops dietary and nutritional guidelines.

Earlier this month, the TNAC announced its first nutritional guidelines, emphasizing their local origin with the statement that they were “created by Texans for Texans.”

The guidelines recommend that Texans fill half their plates with vegetables and fruit at every meal, consume three or more servings of healthy protein daily, include healthy fats, choose whole grains, select nutrient-rich foods for bone health, and limit sugar-sweetened beverages.

Jaclyn Albin, MD, chair of the TNAC, stated, “These new nutritional guidelines translate the science into practical steps Texans can use to support their health and well-being.” She acknowledged the importance of making healthy eating realistic and achievable.

State Senator Lois Kolkhorst (R-Brenham), who authored SB 25, called the guidelines essential for improving food and nutritional literacy in Texas to tackle chronic health issues. She noted that the U.S. healthcare system currently spends $4.5 trillion annually, with 90 percent of that directed toward chronic and mental health conditions. The legislation also aims to enhance physical education in schools and requires food manufacturers to label certain ingredients.

Kolkhorst emphasized the impact of nutrition education, stating, “When people understand what strengthens their health, they are empowered to make better choices for themselves and their families.”

The committee has developed a framework to help implement the nutritional guidelines in everyday life and outline nutrition education requirements for Texas educators, which will begin in grades K-12 in the 2027-28 school year. Higher education and medical institutions are also expected to incorporate nutrition instruction starting in 2027.

An annual report summarizing scientific studies, incorporating new findings, and making additional recommendations will be submitted to key state leaders. The next TNAC meeting is scheduled for November 16 in Austin.