Taiwan to announce new dietary guidelines

台灣將公佈新的飲食指南

TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Taiwan is set to announce revised national dietary guidelines in the second quarter of this year, as health authorities review the latest nutrition data from the US and other countries, Health Minister Shih Chung-liang (石崇良) said Sunday.

Shih said the Health Promotion Administration is in the process of revising the Daily Dietary Guidelines, taking a cue from new US dietary guidelines issued last week, which urged the public to avoid highly processed foods and added sugars while placing stronger emphasis on the consumption of red meat and full-fat dairy products, foods that many nutritionists previously advised limiting, per CNA.

Shih cited eggs as an example of how scientific consensus has shifted. Once discouraged in large quantities due to cholesterol concerns, eggs are now widely recognized as a highly nutritious food. Similarly, dietary guidance that once favored skim or low-fat milk has evolved, with whole milk now seen as an important source of essential nutrients.

“The key is moderate intake,” Shih said, emphasizing that foods should neither be overconsumed nor unnecessarily avoided, as balance remains central to good health.

According to Shih, the HPA regularly updates the guidelines to reflect new scientific findings. A revised draft was completed at the end of last year and was originally expected to be implemented in the first quarter of this year. However, the new US guidelines prompted officials to reconvene expert panels to ensure Taiwan’s recommendations remain aligned with international standards.

Given the time required for further review, combined with extended holidays during the first quarter, Shih said the updated guidelines are now expected to be officially released in the second quarter.

The HPA said the revisions will take into account Taiwan’s dietary habits as well as the nutritional needs of different age groups, including children, adults, and the elderly. Authorities also plan to strengthen public education and outreach to help people make healthier daily food choices and improve long-term health.

Separately, the Health Ministry announced on Jan. 5 plans to introduce a “traffic light” labeling system for food products, aimed at helping consumers reduce sugar and sodium intake. The system, which is targeted for implementation this year, will clearly indicate levels of salt, sugar, saturated fat, and calories on packaged foods.