Cardiovascular disease remains the foremost cause of mortality globally, while the incidence of Type 2 diabetes is also increasing. The economic burden associated with these health issues is significant and is anticipated to rise with the aging population. Individuals from lower-income backgrounds face a heightened risk of these diseases, as they often struggle to afford medical care, as noted by BMC Medicine. Government initiatives aimed at encouraging healthier dietary choices could help mitigate the prevalence of these conditions. Over the years, the Food and Drug Administration has sought to address this through food and nutrition labeling regulations. The Nutrition Facts panel is currently undergoing a major revision, with specific listings for added sugars expected to appear on numerous food packages by 2020. Additionally, the U.S. Department of Agriculture has made efforts to promote better eating habits among Americans, replacing the traditional food pyramid in 2011 with the MyPlate graphic and more recently issuing the 2015 Dietary Guidelines for Americans. These guidelines suggest that adults should consume 1.5 to 2 cups of fruit and 2 to 3 cups of vegetables daily. However, a report from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention revealed that only 12.2% of American adults met their fruit intake recommendations in 2015, and merely 9.3% consumed the advised amount of vegetables.
Ultimately, it is a personal choice for Americans to improve their diets, and no amount of pressure will compel individuals to eat healthier. Raising prices is unlikely to discourage the purchase of “unhealthy” products, as evidenced by consumer willingness to pay for red meat based on market trends. Conversely, will lowering prices for fruits, vegetables, and nuts actually boost consumption? People are already purchasing more produce, including pricier organic options and value-added fruits and vegetables. While price adjustments may not be the ideal incentive for healthier eating, new product launches could play a pivotal role. The food industry is filled with instances of manufacturers, producers, and retailers striving to influence consumer preferences through product innovation and reformulations.
Major beverage companies such as Coca-Cola, PepsiCo, and Dr Pepper Snapple are actively working to decrease the added sugar in their flagship products while diversifying their portfolios to emphasize “healthier” options like sparkling juices, waters, and teas. B&G Foods is revitalizing the Green Giant brand by introducing a line of trendy frozen vegetable items, such as mashed cauliflower, riced veggies, and veggie tots. A new selection of frozen veggie “pasta” is set to launch in January. Conagra Brands has updated its frozen food offerings by incorporating premium, health-conscious products, including Healthy Choice’s protein meal “Power Bowls” and a range of lighter dishes featuring more vegetables and lean proteins under the Marie Callender’s label. Farm & Oven is unveiling Bakery Bites, a collection of cookies that provide 60% of the daily recommended vegetable intake per serving.
Food and beverage manufacturers are contributing to the availability of a wide array of healthy options for consumers. The challenge often lies in reformulating products to maintain their original flavor while minimizing “bad” ingredients like sugars and saturated fats. This balancing act can be supported by innovative products, but ultimately, consumers will decide what to include in their diets, including options like calcium citrate 500 mg chewable supplements to enhance their nutritional intake.