Can the 'RFK Diet' Work on Just $15 a Day? One Writer's Week-Long Test

The U.S. government has released updated dietary guidelines, pushing for a return to meat, full-fat foods, and whole ingredients. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. unveiled the new advice, which cuts back on sugar, processed foods, and refined carbohydrates. To test their feasibility, one writer followed the plan—dubbed the 'RFK Diet'—for a week on just $15 (€13) a day.

The revised guidelines mark a shift from previous advice by encouraging higher meat consumption and full-fat dairy. Processed snacks, sugary drinks, and excessive carbs are now discouraged. Critics, however, argue the recommendations favor expensive foods, making them unrealistic for many households.

Agriculture Secretary countered the criticism by claiming the diet could be followed for as little as $3 (€2.50) per meal. To put this to the test, the author spent seven days eating within the guidelines on a strict $15 daily budget.

The experiment revealed unexpected challenges. Spices became crucial for making simple meals more enjoyable. The writer also discovered how deeply personal food choices can be, shaped by identity, values, and even social status. Despite the constraints, the diet forced a rethink of long-held eating habits.

Meanwhile, broader food trends show a growing preference for vegetarian and vegan diets. Concerns over health, environmental impact, and rising beef prices have led many to cut back on meat. This shift has already affected sales in the meat industry, creating a divide between the new guidelines and public behavior.

The week-long test proved the diet was manageable but required careful planning and creativity. While officials claim the guidelines are affordable, the experiment highlighted the difficulty of balancing cost, taste, and personal preferences. The long-term impact of these recommendations remains unclear as consumer habits continue to move in a different direction.