MyPlate is using the power of Facebook, Pinterest, and Twitter to make it easier for consumers to find simple science-based and practical guidance in many forms to help consumers eat healthier and live healthier. These social media platforms reach broad audiences and can now direct users to the wealth of consumer-friendly content supporting the MyPlate icon.
“Through social media, USDA can reach people where they need to make food decisions -- on-the-go, in stores, at restaurants, and at home -- and provide timely tips and information that can be shared with family and friends.” - Dr. Robert Post, Associate Executive Director of the Center for Nutrition Policy and Promotion.
On March 13, MyPlate made its debut on Facebook, a social media site that engages millions of users in sharing information. The new MyPlate Facebook page offers tips, resources, and materials to keep consumers, professionals, and a wide range of USDA partners up-to-date about all of the resources and tools available on ChooseMyPlate.gov. Users will find an exciting array of photos, helpful tips, tasty recipes, and updates about the award-winning, SuperTracker - all of which can help Americans create healthier plates, schools, and communities.
MyPlate Recipes became an overnight success in late February when First Lady Michelle Obama announced that five of the nation’s largest media companies and Pinterest joined the Partnership for a Healthier America, the First Lady’s Let’s Move! initiative, and USDA’s MyPlate to inspire parents, caregivers, and home-based cooks to prepare healthier plates in their kitchens. The media companies represent 18 recipe sites such as Epicurious.com and Recipes.com. The educational board “What’s MyPlate All About?” is currently composed of 45 educational pins that link to ChooseMyPlate.gov. Less than one month after its launch, MyPlate Recipes boasts more than 75,000 followers.
MyPlate was first introduced on Twitter (@MyPlate) in 2011 and has since grown to include more than 40,000 followers. The largely text-based social media platform has rapidly grown in popularity and offers daily MyPlate tweets about what foods to buy, how to make delicious meals, and how to stay physically active. Resources available through ChooseMyPlate.gov are shared by users who appreciate quick tips about healthier eating and physical activity in a concise package.
The MyPlate presence among all social media platforms aligns with messages based on the 2010 Dietary Guidelines for Americans. The MyPlate initiative is all about making it easier for consumers to find the how-to resources they need to make healthier choices. Join the conversation and learn more about MyPlate by “liking” our Facebook page, “following” us on Twitter, and visiting MyPlate Recipes on Pinterest!
