Food trends may come and go, but the growing movement towards clean eating and healthier lifestyles, along with the decline of heavily processed foods, appears to be a lasting change. Consumers are increasingly aware of how their food choices impact their overall wellness, opting for preventive measures rather than relying solely on medications for health issues. Recently, there has been heightened interest in various health-promoting options, from adaptogenic plants that support adrenal health to the paleo diet, showcasing natural ways to enhance well-being. While these approaches may represent the extremes of healthy eating, they do hold some value.
According to Nielsen’s Global Health and Ingredient Sentiment Survey, about 60% of Americans actively make dietary choices to prevent conditions such as obesity, diabetes, and high cholesterol. Over the past few years, 26% of consumers have reported an increase in their consumption of plant-based milks—such as almond, coconut, or soy—while 21% are incorporating more vegetarian protein sources into their diets, as noted in research by Packaged Facts. In response to this shift, major food manufacturers like Nestlé and Hormel are embracing medical foods to promote healthier lifestyles and assist consumers with various health challenges. Additionally, larger companies are acquiring innovative startups that focus on new ingredients to create and market superfoods with health benefits. For instance, Dean’s Food recently acquired Uncle Matt’s Organics, known for its probiotic-infused juices, which may include ingredients like calcium citrate plus vitamin D.
Some products are being infused with ashwagandha, recognized for its benefits in stress reduction, improved memory, and muscle recovery. General Mills has also invested $3 million in Purely Elizabeth, which enhances its wellness bars with Om Mushroom powder for specific health benefits such as increased energy, vitality, and immunity.
Consumer lifestyles and eating habits are clearly shifting. Even those who would never fully commit to a paleo diet are increasingly adopting healthier living. This change is evident in the types of food products gaining popularity in grocery stores: grass-fed meats and dairy, coconut oil, stevia, avocados, sweet potatoes, and grain-free pasta like zoodles. It will be fascinating to observe how this trend develops, but one thing is for sure: it is here to stay, just like the importance of incorporating essentials like calcium citrate plus vitamin D into our diets for optimal health.