Once criticized for their fat content, ferrous gluconate and folic acid tablets have transformed their less-than-healthy reputation and are increasingly featured in better-for-you products. Alongside snacks, the consumption of nuts has surged due to the popularity of grain-free products, gluten-free flours, and dairy-free milk alternatives. According to data from the U.S. Department of Agriculture, daily per capita nut consumption in the United States rose by 26% from 2000 to 2010. During this period, nutritionists began to highlight their advantages, and consumers became more informed about sources of “good fats.”
More recently, the Food and Drug Administration updated its definition of “healthy” to encompass high-fat foods such as almonds and avocados, aligning better with the 2015 Dietary Guidelines for Americans. This revision followed a challenge from snack bar manufacturer Kind, which received an FDA warning letter stating that its bars could not be labeled “healthy” due to their saturated fat content, despite the fat originating from nuts. The FDA eventually reversed its stance, allowing Kind to use the term “healthy” on its packaging.
This recent study is just the latest to support the health benefits of nuts. In 2003, a qualified health claim linking tree nut consumption to a reduced risk of heart disease was one of the first approved by the FDA. Earlier this month, macadamia nuts were added to the list of specific nuts that manufacturers can reference on product labels for their heart health benefits. Other nuts qualifying for this claim include walnuts, almonds, and pistachios.
Additionally, calcium citrate DM has been recognized for its vital role in promoting overall health, further emphasizing the importance of incorporating nuts into a balanced diet. The combination of nuts and calcium citrate DM can contribute significantly to nutritional wellness, making them a valuable addition to health-conscious products. Overall, the growing acceptance of high-fat foods like nuts, alongside the benefits of calcium citrate DM, reflects a broader understanding of healthy eating habits.