While Everyone Was Arguing Over Food Dyes, Kennedy Sidelined Beans

Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is disregarding recommendations to promote beans and other plant proteins in America's official nutrition guidelines, causing concern among scientists, public health experts, and the bean industry. The Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee had proposed elevating beans, peas, and lentils as protein sources due to their nutritional benefits and sustainability. Kennedy's rejection of this suggestion has left many wondering about the implications for diets, school lunches, and federal spending on programs like SNAP.

While beans are gaining popularity in the market, Kennedy's focus has shifted towards eliminating artificial food dyes from popular brands. The pushback against promoting beans is being attributed to Kennedy's crusade against ultra-processed foods, which the committee did not explicitly address. The outcome of the final guidelines will determine the future of promoting beans as a healthy, affordable protein source in various public programs and initiatives.