New Federal Dietary Recommendations
The Federal Food Safety and Veterinary Office (BLV) has developed new dietary recommendations as part of the Swiss Nutrition Strategy and in collaboration with the Swiss Society for Nutrition (SGE). Plant-based proteins such as legumes are now given priority, displacing animal products such as meat and fish.
These increasingly take sustainability aspects into account as well.
The updated recommendations are visualized in a newly designed food pyramid.
The dietary recommendations for Switzerland were last revised in 2011. The BLV has now reviewed and updated them in collaboration with the SGE based on the latest scientific findings. They now take into account four dimensions: adequate nutrient intake through a diverse selection of foods, health promotion, sustainability aspects, and the eating habits typical in Switzerland.
The Swiss Food Pyramid in a New Look
The dietary recommendations for optimal energy and nutrient supply for healthy adults aged 18 to 65 are illustrated in a new food pyramid with a 3D design. While the diversity of foods has not changed significantly, individual food groups are now given greater emphasis.Plant-based proteins such as legumes are now prioritized over animal-based ones.For carbohydrates, the focus is increasingly on whole grain products. A wide selection of seasonal and regional fruits and vegetables continues to be recommended. The rule of thumb “five portions a day” remains in place. Liquids, primarily water, also remain the most important food group by volume, while sugary drinks, sweets, and snacks are considered optional and therefore dispensable in the daily diet.
A Balanced Diet for Health and the Environment
The new dietary recommendations promote health by focusing on fresh foods rather than processed foods with long ingredient lists. A balanced diet contributes significantly to the prevention of overweight and obesity. It also reduces the risk of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and cancer. To promote vitality, the new dietary recommendations advise 30 minutes of physical activity daily. Last but not least, the updated recommendations, combined with conscious shopping, can contribute to a significant reduction in environmental impact and food waste.
The new dietary recommendations represent an ideal situation. They are to be understood as a guide for a balanced diet. Even small changes in daily eating and exercise habits are a step in the right direction — toward a health-promoting and sustainable diet.
The new dietary recommendations at a glance
- Beverages: Drink regularly. Preferably water. *1–2 liters per day.
- Fruits and vegetables: Colorful and seasonal. *5 portions per day.
- Grain products and potatoes: Prefer whole grain products. *3 portions per day.
- Dairy products: Preferably unsweetened. *2–3 portions per day.
- Legumes, eggs, meat and more: Enjoy variety. Legumes regularly. *1 portion per day.
- Nuts and seeds: Enjoy daily in small amounts. *1 small handful per day.
- Oils and fats: Prefer plant-based oils. *2 tablespoons per day.
- Soft drinks, sweets and salty snacks (optional): In small amounts. *0–1 portion per day.
*Daily intake recommendation per food group (level) in the food pyramid.
| You can help all animals and our planet with compassion. Choose compassion on your plate and in your glass. Go vegan. |
