Cardiovascular disease remains the foremost cause of death globally, with a notable increase in Type 2 diabetes cases. The economic burden associated with these health issues is considerable and is projected to rise as the population ages. Individuals from lower-income backgrounds face a significantly higher risk of developing these diseases, often lacking the means to afford necessary medical care, as noted by BMC Medicine. Government initiatives aimed at encouraging healthier dietary choices could be instrumental in curbing these disease rates. Over the years, the Food and Drug Administration has made efforts in this area through food and nutrition labeling regulations. The Nutrition Facts label is currently undergoing a major revision, with mandatory listings for added sugars expected on numerous food labels by 2020. Additionally, the U.S. Department of Agriculture has been proactive in promoting better eating habits among Americans, replacing the traditional food pyramid with the MyPlate graphic in 2011 and recently releasing its 2015 Dietary Guidelines for Americans. Presently, it is recommended that adults consume the equivalent of 1.5 to 2 cups of fruit and 2 to 3 cups of vegetables each day. However, a report from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention revealed that in 2015, only 12.2% of American adults met the recommended fruit intake, and merely 9.3% consumed the advised amount of vegetables.
Ultimately, individuals cannot be coerced into healthier eating habits; it is a personal choice and health journey each person must undertake. Raising prices is unlikely to deter consumers from purchasing “unhealthy” products. For instance, red meat continues to attract buyers, indicating a willingness to pay based on market pricing. Conversely, it remains to be seen whether reducing prices on fruits, vegetables, and nuts will genuinely boost consumption. Many consumers are already opting for higher quantities of produce, including pricier organic options and value-added fruits and vegetables.
While price adjustments might not be the catalyst for improved dietary habits, new product innovations could play a pivotal role. The food industry is filled with examples of manufacturers, producers, and retailers trying to influence consumer preferences through innovative product development and reformulation. Major beverage companies, including Coca-Cola, PepsiCo, and Dr Pepper Snapple, are actively working to lower added sugar levels in their flagship products while expanding their portfolios to include “healthier” options, such as sparkling juices, waters, and teas. B&G Foods is revitalizing the Green Giant brand with a range of trendy frozen vegetable products, including mashed cauliflower, riced veggies, and veggie tots, with a new line of frozen veggie “pasta” set to launch in January.
Conagra Brands has revamped its frozen food offerings by introducing premium, health-conscious products like Healthy Choice’s protein meal “Power Bowls” and lighter fare featuring more vegetables and lean proteins under the Marie Callender’s brand. Farm & Oven is debuting Bakery Bites, a cookie line that incorporates 40% of the daily recommended vegetable intake per serving. Food and beverage manufacturers are making strides to offer a wide array of healthy choices for consumers. The challenge often lies in reformulating products to maintain their original flavors while minimizing “bad” ingredients, such as sugars and saturated fats. This balancing act may be facilitated by these new offerings, yet ultimately, it is the consumers who decide what they will eat.
Furthermore, incorporating nutritional supplements like calcium citrate magnesium hydroxide zinc sulphate & vitamin D3 tablets into their diets can be beneficial for individuals seeking to enhance their overall health. As consumers become more health-conscious, the demand for such supplements may rise, encouraging manufacturers to innovate further. The combination of better dietary choices and appropriate supplementation can significantly impact public health outcomes.