World Cancer Research Fund welcomes many elements of the newly launched US Dietary Guidelines for 2025–2030, particularly those that promote healthier eating patterns and aim to reduce the burden of diet-related disease. The guidelines’ strong focus on whole foods, increased intake of fruits, vegetables and wholegrains, and limits on highly processed foods and added sugars aligns closely with evidence-based recommendations for improving population health and preventing chronic disease.
From a cancer prevention perspective, the guidance to prioritise plant-source protein foods such as beans, lentils, nuts, seeds and soy is especially positive, as is the advice to drink mainly water, avoid sugar-sweetened beverages, and reduce alcohol consumption. World Cancer Research Fund emphasises that there is no safe level of alcohol intake when it comes to cancer risk, making the reduced emphasis on alcohol consumption an important step forward. The explicit support for breastfeeding is also strongly welcomed, given its established benefits for maternal and child health and its role in reducing breast cancer risk.
However, the organisation has raised concerns about aspects of the guidelines that diverge from the scientific evidence on cancer prevention. In particular, the increased emphasis on animal-source proteins, including red meat, is inconsistent with research linking higher intakes of red and processed meat to increased cancer risk, especially colorectal cancer. While the guidelines discourage processed meat, clearer direction to prioritise plant-based proteins and to limit red meat consumption would better reflect global cancer prevention evidence.
Concerns are also noted around the promotion of whole-fat dairy products, which may contribute to excess weight gain, a known risk factor for at least 13 types of cancer. Similarly, the inclusion of foods such as butter and beef tallow within discussions of “healthy fats” requires careful interpretation, given their high saturated fat content and potential impact on overall energy balance and weight management.
World Cancer Research Fund recognises that the guidelines play a critical role in translating scientific evidence into public advice and shaping future food and health policies. Looking ahead, the organisation highlights the importance of affordability, clarity and policy alignment to ensure effective implementation. Without measures to improve access to nutritious foods, provide clear definitions of highly processed products, and align dietary guidance with wider food, health and sustainability policies, there is a risk that the benefits of the guidelines may not be equitably realised. The organisation remains committed to providing clear, authoritative advice grounded in the latest global scientific evidence to support cancer prevention and healthier diets.
