This past Thursday, June 2 2011, the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) unveiled a brand new food icon.

Known as MyPlate, this new icon has been implemented in place of the ever-familiar Food Pyramid as the symbol for the standard by which the USDA is encouraging the public to regulate their food and calorie intake.

The icon is an image of a dinner plate, quartered to show how much of one’s plate should be dedicated to particular food groups: one quarter protein, one quarter grains, one quarter fruits, and one quarter vegetables.  Off to the side is a separate section for a serving of dairy, be that a glass of milk or a cup of yogurt.

Notably, MyPlate shows a significant increase in the amount of fruits and vegetables recommended per meal in comparison to the old Food Pyramid.

The MyPlate campaign goal is to encourage portion control, the website noting “Enjoy your food, but eat less.”

Information about the food groups, how to measure portions, and other USDA diet tips can be found at www.choosemyplate.gov.