Trump agriculture secretary Brooke Rollins faces backlash over $3 meal claim

Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins said a meal under the new federal dietary guidelines could cost around $3, and the remark prompted public criticism and debate about affordability.

US Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins said a meal that follows the government's new dietary guidelines can cost as little as $3. The guidelines were announced on January 7 by Rollins and Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and emphasize protein, dairy, fruits, vegetables, healthy fats and whole grains. Rollins said the administration ran more than 1,000 grocery simulations and asserted the recommendations would not raise consumer food costs. Key points: - Rollins told News Nation the government simulations suggested a meal could cost around $3 and that average servings might be under $5. - The comment drew public backlash on social media, with people citing higher grocery prices and additional household cooking expenses. - Reporting cited recent price measures, noting Bureau of Labor Statistics data showing chicken near $4 per pound and the USDA Thrifty Food Plan averaging close to $4 per meal. Summary: The remark prompted criticism and renewed discussion about whether the new dietary guidance is affordable for lower-income households while officials say the changes support farmers and the food system. Undetermined at this time.