VI Eat Well Guide & Dietary Guidelines launched
This guide is a “critical initiative in our national health agenda”, Minister for Health and Social Development Hon Vincent O. Wheatley (R9) told members of the House of Assembly (HoA) on June 3, 2025, during the Fifth Sitting of the Second Session of the Fifth HoA.
“It is no secret that chronic non-communicable diseases…such as diabetes, hypertension, obesity, and heart disease, continue to plague our communities.”
He added that, despite persistent efforts, too many in the VI are lost to these CNCDs, which are, for the most part, preventable through healthier lifestyle choices.
‘More than just a guide’
The Virgin Islands Eat Well Guide and Dietary Guidelines represent a “transformational step” forward in the Ministry of Health and Social Development’s promotion of better health outcomes for all residents.
According to Hon Wheatley, the guide provides a comprehensive, evidence-based framework to combat chronic diseases by encouraging balanced nutrition and active living at every stage of life.
“This is more than just a guide, it is a roadmap to a healthier future. It equips our citizens with the tools and knowledge to make informed and nutritious choices every day. It reminds us that eating well is not about restriction, but about empowerment and choosing foods that nourish both body and mind.”
He added that it also supports national priorities of food security and sustainability, and promotes the consumption of locally grown produce and traditional foods.
“The Eat Well Guide is also a strategic resource for our public health professionals, educators, and policymakers. It supports the development of unified and targeted nutrition education and programmes that enhance our collective response to the NCD epidemic,” Hon Wheatley stated.
The Guide is organised around five main food groups: fruits and vegetables, starchy carbohydrates and grains, animal protein and alternatives, dairy and alternatives, and fats and oils.
Implementation strategy
Hon Wheatley said it is expected that the guide becomes a standard tool for nutrition education in schools, healthcare settings, community outreach, and professional training programmes across the Territory as part of the implementation strategy.
“We also encourage the public to embrace it and incorporate it into their daily lives.”
The Health Minister also said his team will collaborate with stakeholders to develop educational materials, health promotion initiatives, and social marketing campaigns that support the use of the Guide.
“Looking ahead, we also aim to partner with food vendors to ensure that foods prepared for sale align with the standards outlined in the Guide. To further support the adoption of these principles, the Ministry will also explore and bring forward to Cabinet for consideration, the introduction of a protected essential food basket.”
The Virgin Islands Eat Well Guide and Dietary Guidelines, he said, is not just a document but a call to action.
“A call to eat well, live well, and build a healthier Virgin Islands one meal, one family, one community at a time.”
The guide was published on June 5, 2025, and can be found at the link below
https://bvi.gov.vg/sites/default/files/resources/bvi_eat_well_guide_user_guide_2025.pdf
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5 Responses to “VI Eat Well Guide & Dietary Guidelines launched”
Seven, ($7.25) and twenty-five offered to minimum wages workers is insufficient. Our Hon. Vencent Wheatley, Health Minister knows this, surely does the other members of the VIP government Cabinet.