Candace Krebs Newly released dietary guidelines generate mixed reactions New five-year dietary guidelines, released in late December by USDA, brought strong approval from mainstream beef, dairy and grain organizations, but left other health advocates concerned. Updated every five years, the guidelines serve as the foundation for federal nutrition policy and shape the recommendations found on USDA's MyPlate graphic. Nina Teicholz, author and executive director of The Nutrition Coalition, said the new guidelines overlook the fact that 60 percent of the U.S. population already suffers from at least one chronic, diet-related condition. Ultimately, USDA rejected recommendations from an advisory committee made up of health and medical experts, which advised lower limits on alcohol and added sugars.