NEW MyPlate Resources to Help Consumers Eat Healthfully on a Budget

The COVID-19 pandemic and National Strategy on Hunger, Nutrition, and Health elevated the national dialogue on achieving greater nutrition security in the US. MyPlate’s messaging pillars are oriented toward educating the public on nutrient density, health equity, and cost-consciousness. As part of its MyPlate Nutrition Communicators Network, USDA partners with organizations to develop and extend resources based on the Dietary Guidelines for Americans and MyPlate. This webinar will highlight newly created, unbranded, and free downloadable resources for educators to use to encourage and support consumers in eating healthier on a budget.

Speakers:

Dr. Nikki Ford, Senior Director of Nutrition, Avocado Nutrition Center
In her professional capacity, Nikki directs a clinical nutrition research program, and oversees a nutrition affairs program, which aims to ensure that avocados can be promoted based upon nutrition research. Nikki’s scientific career has focused on understanding the health benefits of consuming fruits, vegetables and other whole foods. Nikki holds a B.S. in Animal Science from Pennsylvania State, and a Ph.D. in Nutritional Science with a certificate in business management from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. She has authored more than 39 scientific articles and book chapters, and regularly speaks at scientific and health professional meetings and industry events and conferences.

Dr. Tricia Psota, Partner, Nutrition In Demand
Tricia is a registered dietitian nutritionist with an extensive and diverse background in nutrition research, education, policy, and communications. She has held influential roles within the federal government, education and health care sectors, and research institutions—all aimed at using nutrition to improve individual and public health nationally. Her expertise involves translating complex, nutrition science into easy-to-digest guidance, providing strategic policy insights, and crafting evidence-based omnimedia communications for an array of audiences. While at the U.S.D.A, she assisted with scientific reviews for the Dietary Guidelines for Americans and helped bring MyPlate to life. Tricia has a doctorate in nutrition science and two bachelor’s degrees from The Pennsylvania State University. Even when she’s not working, Tricia embraces the world of food and nutrition through gardening (alongside her pups) and cooking nutritious and delicious meals for loved ones.