Choosing foods from the MyPlate food groups helps us all eat healthy meals each day
Fruit: Look for canned fruit packed in water or juice and dried fruit with no added sugar.
Vegetables: Look for canned vegetables with "low-sodium" or "no added salt."
Grains: Look for 100% whole-grain foods such as brown rice, whole-wheat pasta and oatmeal.
Protein: Look for canned beans with "no added salt," nut butters, nuts and seeds, and canned fish in water.
Dairy: Look for shelf-stable milk, powdered milk or plant milks such as soy.
Why each food group is good for us:
- Fruits provide vitamin C, dietary fiber, potassium and folate.
- Vegetables provide vitamins A and C, dietary fiber, potassium and folate.
- Whole grains provide complex carbohydrates, dietary fiber, B vitamins and minerals.
- Proteins provides protein, B vitamins, vitamin E, iron, zinc and magnesium.
- Dairy provides calcium, phosphorus and vitamins A, D and B12.
Shopping tips for food donations:
- Buy pop-top cans that are easy to open.
- Include pantry staple items such as cooking oil and spices.
- Include foods for special diets like kosher or gluten-free.
- Avoid highly processed foods or foods with added sugar.