The Swedish Food Agency’s dietary guidelines are based on what promotes good health and are supported by strong scientific evidence. In short, the advice is to eat plenty of vegetables, fruit, legumes like beans, peas, and lentils, and whole grains. It also recommends reducing the consumption of sweets, soda, pastries, snacks, and other foods that mainly provide empty calories.
Since meat consumption has been a topic of debate, the agency wants to clarify: it’s fine to eat meat, but not too much. For health reasons, the recommendation is to consume up to 350 grams of cooked red meat per week – a guideline already followed by one in three Swedes.
We know changing habits can be difficult, but even small changes can positively affect health.
After tobacco, our eating habits pose the biggest health risk in Sweden. Heart disease, cancer, type 2 diabetes, and obesity – conditions that affect many – are strongly linked to diet. If all adults followed the dietary guidelines, more than 100,000 cases of cancer and cardiovascular disease could be prevented each year. This would reduce suffering and save nearly 3 billion kronor in healthcare costs. Therefore, both individuals and society have much to gain from healthier eating.
The guidelines are based on an extensive review of current research on food and health, including work done through a Nordic collaboration led by the Nordic Council of Ministers. The Swedish Food Agency was tasked by the government with further clarifying the scientific basis. The guidelines prioritize health, and the recommended amounts of various foods are based on health considerations.
Good public health also strengthens Sweden’s resilience in times of crisis and war – a point emphasized by the Defence Commission in light of today’s uncertain world. The prevalence of overweight individuals and poor fitness negatively affects Sweden’s resilience and, for example, the recruitment of conscripts. Healthier eating habits during peacetime are an important part of making society better prepared for wartime.
A strong Swedish food production sector is beneficial for Sweden and a vital component of national preparedness. Eating according to the dietary guidelines also benefits the climate and environment. By following the guidelines and choosing Swedish-produced food, we can all support domestic food producers, contribute to a vibrant countryside, and reduce the environmental impact of our food choices.
What we eat and the choices we make regarding food have a significant impact on our health, the environment, and the companies that produce our food. You don’t have to change everything – every step toward better eating habits counts.