Are fats, oils, and sweets considered a food group?

Fats, oils, and sweets are not considered a standalone food group in dietary guidelines. Instead, they are typically classified as part of the broader categories of fats or added sugars, which are to be consumed in moderation due to their high calorie content and limited nutritional benefits. While some fats are essential for health, such as unsaturated fats found in fish and avocados, they are understood as components of a healthy diet rather than a primary food group on their own.

Furthermore, dietary guidelines emphasize the importance of fruits, vegetables, grains, proteins, and dairy as the main food groups needed for a balanced diet. The inclusion of fats, oils, and sweets as separate entities can lead to confusion about their role in nutrition, and dietary advice usually recommends they should only be consumed sparingly to maintain health and well-being.