- View the full article
- Fruits and vegetables
- Other starchy carbohydrates include potatoes, rice, bread and pasta
- Beans, pulses and fish, as well as meat, eggs and other proteins
- Dairy alternatives
- Oils and Spreads
- Water and other beverages
- Foods High in Fat, Salt or Sugar
Overview
The Eatwell Guide provides recommendations on how to eat a balanced, healthy diet.
This guide explains the types of food and drink you should consume every day or even over a week.
Food Standards Scotland
The five main groups
The Eatwell Guide divides the foods and beverages we consume into five main groups.
- Fruit and vegetables
- Potatoes, rice, bread and pasta are all starchy carbohydrates
- Beans, pulses and fish, as well as eggs, meat, and other proteins
- Alternatives to dairy products
- Oils and Spreads
You should choose foods from all of these groups to ensure you are getting the nutrients you need.
Who is to be commended for following these recommendations?
The following recommendations are applicable to all people, regardless of:
- Weight
- Dietary restrictions or preferences
- Ethnic origin
Ask a dietitian about how to customize this guide for your specific needs.
Babies & young children
Children aged between 2 and 5 years old should slowly start eating the foods recommended in the guide.
These recommendations do not apply to children under 2.
Use the Eatwell Guide
This guide can help you make better choices in the following situations:
- Plan your meals
- Cooking or preparing food at home
- Food shopping
- Eat out or go on the move
The majority of meals combine food groups. Plan your meals by identifying the five main food groups and the main ingredients.