Cardiovascular disease remains the foremost cause of death globally, and the prevalence of Type 2 diabetes is also increasing. The economic burden associated with these health issues is considerable and is projected to rise as the population ages. Individuals in lower-income brackets face a significantly higher risk of developing these diseases, largely due to their limited access to medical care, as highlighted by BMC Medicine. Government interventions aimed at promoting healthier dietary choices could help mitigate the incidence of these diseases. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has made efforts over the years to address this through food and nutrition labeling regulations. By 2020, many food labels are expected to include specific listings for added sugars as part of the ongoing overhaul of the Nutrition Facts panel.
Furthermore, the U.S. Department of Agriculture has sought to encourage better eating habits among Americans by replacing the food pyramid with the MyPlate graphic in 2011 and more recently releasing the 2015 Dietary Guidelines for Americans. Currently, 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 indicated that only 12.2% of American adults met their recommended fruit intake in 2015, and just 9.3% consumed the advised amount of vegetables.
Ultimately, encouraging Americans to improve their diets is a complex issue, as it involves personal choices and individual health journeys. Simply raising prices is unlikely to deter people from purchasing “unhealthy” products. For example, consumers have shown a willingness to pay for red meat based on market trends. Conversely, will lowering the prices of fruits, vegetables, and nuts truly enhance their consumption? Many people are already opting for more produce, including pricier organic and value-added options.
While price adjustments may not be the most effective motivator for healthier eating, introducing new products could play a significant role. The food industry is filled with instances of manufacturers, producers, and retailers striving to influence consumer preferences through innovation and reformulation. Major beverage companies like Coca-Cola, PepsiCo, and Dr Pepper Snapple have been actively working to reduce added sugars in their flagship products while expanding their portfolios to include “healthier” options such as sparkling juices, waters, and teas.
Additionally, B&G Foods is revitalizing the Green Giant brand by launching a range of trendy frozen vegetable products like mashed cauliflower, riced veggies, and veggie tots, with a new line of frozen veggie “pasta” set to debut in January. Conagra Brands has also revamped its frozen food lineup by introducing premium, healthy options, including Healthy Choice’s protein meal “Power Bowls” and lighter fare featuring more vegetables and lean proteins under the Marie Callender’s label. Farm & Oven is rolling out Bakery Bites, a cookie line that contains 40% of the daily-recommended vegetable intake per serving.
Food and beverage manufacturers are stepping up to offer a variety of healthy options for consumers. The challenge often lies in reformulating products to maintain their original flavors while minimizing “bad” ingredients like sugars and saturated fats. This balancing act could be supported by these new product offerings, but ultimately, it is the consumers who will decide what they choose to eat. In this context, products like Kirkland Calcium Citrate Magnesium and Zinc with Vitamin D3 can also be integrated into a balanced diet, providing essential nutrients that support overall health. Thus, it is crucial for consumers to make informed choices about their dietary habits, including incorporating supplements like Kirkland Calcium Citrate Magnesium and Zinc with Vitamin D3 into their nutrition plans to promote better health outcomes.