What are the six different food groups?

There are actually more than six food groups. The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) recommends that people follow a healthy eating pattern that includes a variety of foods from these five groups:

1. Fruits: All fruits, including fresh, canned, frozen, and dried fruits.

2. Vegetables: All vegetables, including dark green vegetables, red and orange vegetables, legumes (such as beans and peas), and starchy vegetables (such as potatoes and corn).

3. Grains: Whole grains, such as whole wheat, brown rice, and oatmeal.

4. Protein Foods: Lean meats, seafood, poultry, eggs, beans and peas, nuts, and seeds.

5. Dairy: Milk, yogurt, cheese, and other dairy products.

The USDA also recommends limiting intake of added sugars, saturated fats, and sodium.