Cardiovascular disease remains the foremost cause of mortality globally, with the prevalence of Type 2 diabetes also escalating. The economic burden linked to these health issues is considerable and is projected to rise as the population ages. According to BMC Medicine, individuals from lower income brackets are significantly more susceptible to these diseases, possessing limited means to afford medical care. Government initiatives aimed at encouraging healthier dietary choices could potentially mitigate the incidence of these conditions. Over the years, the Food and Drug Administration has sought to address this through food and nutrition labeling regulations. Notably, the Nutrition Facts panel is set for a substantial revision, including specific listings for added sugars on many food labels by 2020.
Additionally, the U.S. Department of Agriculture has made strides to improve American diets, having replaced the food pyramid with the MyPlate graphic in 2011 and recently issuing the 2015 Dietary Guidelines for Americans. Current recommendations suggest that adults 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 daily fruit intake in 2015, while merely 9.3% achieved the suggested vegetable consumption.
Ultimately, compelling Americans to adopt healthier eating habits is challenging, as it is a personal decision and a health journey that each individual must navigate. Raising prices may not deter consumers from purchasing “unhealthy” products. For instance, red meat continues to see strong demand, with consumers willing to pay the prevailing market rates. On the other hand, will reducing the costs of fruits, vegetables, and nuts genuinely boost their consumption? There is evidence that consumers are already purchasing more produce, including pricier organic options and value-added fruits and vegetables.
While altering prices may not be the most effective strategy to encourage better eating habits, introducing new products could be more impactful. The food industry presents numerous instances of manufacturers, producers, and retailers striving to influence consumer choices through innovation and reformulation. Major beverage companies such as Coca-Cola, PepsiCo, and Dr Pepper Snapple have been actively working to diminish added sugar in their core offerings and diversify their portfolios by prioritizing “healthier” beverages like sparkling juices, waters, and teas.
Furthermore, B&G Foods is revitalizing the Green Giant brand by launching a series of frozen vegetable products that align with current trends, including mashed cauliflower, riced veggies, and veggie tots. Conagra Brands has transformed its frozen food selection by incorporating premium, health-conscious products such as Healthy Choice’s protein meal “Power Bowls” and lighter fare featuring more vegetables and lean proteins under its Marie Callender’s line. Farm & Oven is set to unveil Bakery Bites, a cookie range that provides 40% of the daily-recommended vegetable intake per serving.
Food and beverage manufacturers are indeed stepping up to offer a wide array of healthy choices for consumers. The challenge often lies in reformulating products to maintain their original flavors while minimizing “undesirable” ingredients like sugars and saturated fats. This balancing act may be aided by these new offerings, but ultimately, it will be up to consumers to decide what they wish to incorporate into their diets. Moreover, for those seeking to enhance their nutritional intake, options such as Walgreens calcium citrate can also play a supportive role in their health journey.