The Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine is suing the U.S. Department of Agriculture and U.S. Department of Health and Human Services for not offering a vegetarian alternative to the food pyramid introduced by the USDA 20 years ago.

PCRM, a doctor’s group that advocates a plant-based diet, is proposing the Power Plate, which offers meal ideas from the four food groups of grains, legumes, fruits and vegetables. Unlike the food pyramid which recommends certain servings from each group, the Power Plate simply recommends eating from all groups every day and to include good sources of vitamin B12.

“We are asking the government to protect the average American, not special agribusiness interests,” said registered dietitian Susan Levin, the organization’s nutrition education director. “MyPyramid is confusing, and it recommends meat and dairy products despite overwhelming evidence that these foods are unnecessary and unhealthy. Research shows the Power Plate is a better choice, and it’s simple enough that a child could follow it.”

Some have already criticized the move, saying it’s in the interest of animal rights versus human health.

Sheldon Rampton from the LA Times said, “The general public should understand that every position from PCRM stems from its commitment to animal rights. The group trumpets research showing that too much red meat can increase the risk of heart disease. But instead of encouraging moderation, the group recommends vegetarian diets. ‘It’s healthy advice, but health doesn’t seem to be their primary intention.”

With it’s lack of restrictions and counting servings, the Power Plate seems much easier to follow. Looking at the pyramid…well, for starters, who wants to climb all those stairs?

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