USDA Daily Food Requirements

The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) has published new guidelines for dietary requirements and recommendations every five years since 1980. The purpose of the Dietary Guidelines for Americans is to advise people aged 2 and older on the types and quantities of foods that have been clinically determined to promote health while reducing the risk of major diseases that have been linked to poor dietary habits. Provides below is an updated list of USDA dietary requirements based on a 2,000 calorie diet, according to the dietary guidelines issued in 2005.

Fruit Group

• It is recommended to consume two cups of fruit daily.

  The recommended amount of daily fruit intake is two cups (four servings). One serving of fruit is equivalent to 1/2 cup of fresh fruit, one medium fruit, 1/4 cup of dried fruit or 1/2 cup of fruit juice.

Vegetable Group

• The USDA advises the intake of a variety of different vegetables.

  The recommended intake of vegetables per day is 2.5 cups (five servings). The vegetable group includes dark leafy greens, orange vegetables like carrots, legumes (including beans) and starchy vegetables like potatoes.

Grain Group

• Adding whole grains to one's diet is strongly advised.

  The average American should consume six ounces of grains daily. One ounce of grain is equivalent to one slice of bread, one cup of dried cereal or 1/2 cup of cook rice or pasta. The USDA advises increasing in the amount of whole grains to provide necessary daily fiber.

Meat Group

• According to the USDA, lean meats are the best choice.

  The recommended amount of meat is 5.5 ounces daily. A one-ounce serving of meat is one ounce of lean poultry, fish or red meat, one egg, or 1/2 cup of nuts.

Milk Group

• The USDA recommends three cups of milk daily. This requirement can also be met by consuming yogurt or cheese.

Oils

• The recommended daily intake of oils is 24 grams, or six tablespoons. This group includes mayo and salad dressings.

Discretionary Calorie Allowance

• Candy is a discretionary calorie allowance.

  An additional 264 calories can come from a solid fat or added sugar source.

Additional Recommendations for Women

• The USDA recommends that women of childbearing age increase the intake of foods high in iron and folic acid.

Additional Recommendations for Elders

• The ability to absorb vitamins diminishes as people age, therefore, people over 50 should increase their intake of vitamin rich foods and supplements, according to the USDA.