ASTA Statement on HHS & USDA’s Release of New Dietary Guidelines for Americans

The following statement is attributable to Laura Shumow, Executive Director of the American Spice Trade Association (ASTA):

“ASTA applauds Secretaries Kennedy and Rollins, the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) for their leadership in developing new Dietary Guidelines for Americans that explicitly highlight the important role herbs and spices play in promoting healthier eating among American families. Specifically, the 2025-2030 Guidelines note that U.S. consumers can use spices to flavor essential ‘Real Food’ in the New Pyramid, including meats, fruits, and vegetables. This call-out re-enforces spices’ importance as natural tools for enhancing the appeal of nutritious foods, especially for children.  

“The U.S. spice industry welcomes this development after weeks of working closely with USDA and HHS officials. The Make America Healthy Again (MAHA) movement has seized this pivotal opportunity to champion herbs and spices as wholesome alternatives to artificial colors and flavors to shape stronger, health-focused U.S. food policy. 

“ASTA remains committed to continuing to collaborate with HHS, USDA, and other MAHA leaders to promote the use of and access to spices and the many unique health benefits they bring to American families.” 

For more information on the benefits of herbs and spices, please visit: https://astaspice.org/advocacy/health-benefits.