The latest Dietary Guidelines from the U.S. government recommend that whole grains should constitute 50% of all grains consumed. They also advise limiting the intake of refined grains and products made from them—especially those high in saturated fats, added sugars, and sodium, such as cookies, cakes, and various snack foods. Most refined grains undergo processing that removes the bran and germ, stripping away dietary fiber, iron, and other key nutrients. To counter this loss, these grains are often enriched with iron and four B vitamins (thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, and folic acid). Both whole grains and these “enriched grains” play a significant role in human health, as noted in the study. Previous research has shown that “nearly the entire U.S. population consumes a diet with fewer whole grains than recommended,” leading to the conclusion in this analysis that most grains consumed are enriched products.
Despite recent reformulations in the food industry that have reduced sodium, sugar, and saturated fat levels in certain products, some consumers remain concerned that enriched grains may contribute to obesity and other health issues. Many individuals have become cautious about their carbohydrate intake, while others have decreased or completely eliminated gluten from their diets—found in wheat, spelt, kamut, rye, barley, and other grains. In response to these concerns, the food industry has introduced a range of products featuring gluten-free grains such as corn, millet, rice, and sorghum.
Retailers have an opportunity to tap into the growing consumer awareness surrounding grains by promoting enriched-grain, whole-grain, and gluten-free products in their stores, while also providing nutritional information about each. Bakeries could enhance their outreach by educating customers on the importance of consuming grain-based foods for overall health, especially in the context of bariatric fusion calcium, which plays a role in maintaining proper nutrition. By incorporating educational efforts about the health benefits of grains, including the significance of enriched grains and whole grains, retailers can better support their customers’ dietary choices and address concerns related to obesity and health issues.