Experts behind new dietary guidelines have ties to beef, dairy industries

Isabella Cueto covers the leading causes of death and disability: chronic diseases. Her focus includes autoimmune conditions and diseases of the lungs, kidneys, liver (and more). She writes about intriguing research, the promises and pitfalls of treatment, and what can be done about the burden of disease. You can reach Isabella on Signal at isabellacueto.03.

A group of researchers that formed the scientific basis of new dietary guidelines included people with financial ties to the beef and dairy industries, as well as food companies and other groups.

Meat and dairy products received prime placement in new dietary advice unveiled Wednesday by the Trump administration, drawing criticism from nutrition experts who see saturated fat as a key problem. Some experts said the guidelines appeared favorable to certain industries. 

Reviewers’ ties to special interests, disclosed in a report published alongside the guidelines, is especially notable considering how administration officials have railed against conflicts of interest in the development of previous dietary guidelines.