By Dave Branco

TYH: Canadian Food Guide Part 1 

Jan 20, 2026 | 6:00 AM

PRINCE GEORGE – Canada’s Food Guide has been helping Canadians make healthier eating choices since 2019, but many don’t realize it’s more than just a colourful plate diagram. We spoke with nutrition expert Flo Sheppard about how this science-based resource is shaping Canadians’ eating habits.

The Canadian Food Guide isn’t just about what’s on your plate. It’s about how you eat. Nutrition expert Flo Sheppard explains that the current version takes a comprehensive approach to healthy eating.

The guide divides your plate into three sections. Half for vegetables and fruits, a quarter for whole grains, and a quarter for protein foods. But Sheppard says what makes the 2019 version unique is its focus on the Canadian context.

The guide considers availability, affordability, and accessibility across Canada’s diverse geography,   from small rural communities to large metropolitan areas.

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The guide is designed for Canadians ages two and up and serves as the foundation for meal planning in schools, hospitals, and long-term care facilities. Sheppard notes that Health Canada recently confirmed the science behind the guide remains strong