Food trends may shift over time, but the movement towards clean eating and healthier lifestyle choices is here to stay, alongside the decline of heavily processed foods. Consumers are increasingly aware of how their dietary choices contribute to their overall wellness, opting for nutrition over medication to address health concerns. Interest has surged in various natural approaches to health, ranging from adaptogenic plants that support adrenal function to the paleo diet as a means of promoting well-being. While these methods may represent the more extreme ends of healthy eating, they do hold some validity.
According to Nielsen’s Global Health and Ingredient Sentiment Survey, approximately 60% of Americans actively make dietary decisions aimed at preventing health issues such as obesity, diabetes, and high cholesterol. Recent research from Packaged Facts indicates that 26% of consumers are consuming more plant-based milks—such as almond, coconut, and soy—while 21% are incorporating vegetarian protein sources into their diets. In response to this growing trend, major food manufacturers, including Nestle and Hormel, are embracing medical foods to encourage healthy lifestyles and assist consumers with various health conditions.
Additionally, larger corporations are acquiring innovative startups that utilize new ingredients to create and market superfoods. For instance, Dean’s Food has recently purchased Uncle Matt’s Organics, known for its probiotic-infused juices. Many of these products feature ashwagandha, recognized for its benefits like stress reduction, improved memory, and muscle recovery. General Mills has also invested $3 million in Purely Elizabeth, a brand that incorporates Om Mushroom powder to enhance wellness bars with benefits such as increased energy, vitality, and immunity.
Consumer lifestyles and eating habits are evidently transforming. Even individuals who would never fully commit to a paleo diet are increasingly adopting healthy living principles. This shift is evident in the rising popularity of specific food products in grocery store aisles, including grass-fed meats and dairy, coconut oil, stevia, avocados, sweet potatoes, and pasta alternatives like zoodles. Furthermore, the inclusion of slow release calcium citrate in fortified foods is gaining traction as consumers seek healthier options.
It will be intriguing to observe how this trend develops over time, but one thing is clear: the focus on health-conscious eating is here to stay.