Eat Smart
Cooking and eating smart on a limited budget is possible. In this section you'll find information about basic cooking skills, MyPlate, the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, and information about the programs we lead throughout the state.
Cooking Basics
One of the best things about cooking at home is that you have total control over what goes into your meal. It gives you the flexibility to change recipes to fit your family’s specific tastes, and to help you meet your nutrition goals.
MyPlate | U.S. Department of Agriculture
Learn how to easily meet your body's nutritional needs every day through the MyPlate Plan from the USDA. Discover how a balanced diet of the five main food groups work together to keep you energized and healthy.
Dietary Guidelines
The Dietary Guidelines for Americans influence all nutrition policies and programs from the federal government, such as the National School Lunch Program and the Special Supplemental Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC). As a USDA-funded program, the Family Nutrition Program teaches the Dietary Guidelines and MyPlate.
Our Programs
The Virginia Family Nutrition Program works with many audiences and partners to best meet the needs of each unique community. From rural areas of Appalachia to urban areas like Richmond, Arlington and Alexandria, we bring nutrition education and healthy living strategies to Virginians who want to make healthy shifts in their lives.
