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In 2012, 17% of the US population was of Latino/Hispanic origin making it the larger minority group. By 2050 it is projected to rise to 30%1. Latinos in the US, diversity aside, have different eating patterns from the Non-Latinos leaving food as their common ground. Overall, Latinos eat the same foods with different preparations and names. Studies show that a different food guide approach may be appropriate for ethnic groups with distinct and varying food preferences and needs2. Universal dietary guidelines may not be effective for different ethnic groups3. Therefore, there is a need to adjust the USDA Food Guide to reflect the nutritional needs, food preferences, culinary traditions and include the different food names and eating patterns of the multiple Latino groups in US. The Latino Way Food Guide was created based on field observations, public information and ecological data collected from Latino clients throughout 25 years. The significance of this model is being tested with focus groups, interviews and surveys. The Latino Way Food Guide intends to fill the gap left by the limited food and nutritional educational materials available that address the variety of cultural foods used by Latinos in the US.
