California Walnut Commission applauds emphasis on nuts in new dietary guidelines

The California Walnut Commission (CWC) said the newly released Dietary Guidelines for Americans, 2025–2030, reflect growing recognition of nuts as part of healthy eating patterns.

The guidelines, released Jan. 7 following a scientific review by a federal advisory committee, emphasize whole, nutrient-dense foods and recommend protein and healthy fats from both plant and animal sources. Nuts are included among recommended protein foods across multiple age groups and life stages.

In a statement, the CWC noted that walnuts are identified in the guidelines’ accompanying report as a rich source of alpha-linolenic acid, a plant-based omega-3 fatty acid, and are represented in the updated federal food pyramid.

Within a 2,000-calorie diet, the guidelines recommend one ounce of nuts or seeds, or two tablespoons of nut or seed butter, as part of three to four daily servings of protein foods. The guidance also recommends introducing potentially allergenic foods, including nut butters, alongside complementary foods to infants beginning around 6 months of age.

“This marks an important step in gaining broader recognition that walnuts, as a healthy and real food, should be part of our daily lifestyle,” said Robert Verloop, CEO of the CWC.

The commission said the updated guidance aligns with decades of nutrition research supported by the California walnut industry. According to the commission, walnuts have been included in more than 240 published research studies examining their role in areas such as heart health, metabolic health, gut health, sleep and cognitive function.

“Through our global health research program, we’re supporting science that addresses health topics consumers care about,” said Rachel Blaine, CWC scientific advisor.

The commission also pointed to the guidelines’ broader emphasis on supporting American agriculture and food systems centered on whole foods.