Cardiovascular disease remains the foremost cause of death globally, with Type 2 diabetes cases also increasing. The economic burden linked to these health issues is significant and projected to grow as the population ages. Individuals in lower income brackets face a higher risk of these conditions and often struggle to afford medical care, as highlighted by BMC Medicine. Government initiatives aimed at encouraging healthier dietary choices could potentially mitigate the prevalence of these diseases. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has made efforts over the years through food and nutrition labeling laws, including a major revision of the Nutrition Facts panel. By 2020, many food labels should include specific listings for added sugars.
Additionally, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has sought to promote better eating habits among Americans, replacing the food pyramid with the MyPlate graphic in 2011 and more recently releasing the 2015 Dietary Guidelines for Americans. Currently, adults are advised to consume the equivalent of 1.5 to 2 cups of fruit and 2 to 3 cups of vegetables daily. However, a report from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention indicated that only 12.2% of American adults met their recommended daily intake of fruit in 2015, while a mere 9.3% consumed the suggested amount of vegetables.
Ultimately, it is a personal choice for Americans to improve their eating habits. Simply raising prices is unlikely to deter people from purchasing items perceived as unhealthy. For instance, consumers appear willing to pay market prices for red meat. Conversely, will lowering prices on fruits, vegetables, and nuts truly enhance consumption? People are already buying more produce, including pricier organic options and value-added fruits and vegetables.
While adjusting prices may not be the optimal strategy for promoting healthier eating, introducing new products could be more effective. The food industry is filled with examples of manufacturers, producers, and retailers striving to influence consumer choices through innovative products and reformulations. Major beverage companies like Coca-Cola, PepsiCo, and Dr Pepper Snapple have been actively working to reduce added sugars in their flagship products while diversifying their portfolios to emphasize “healthier” options such as sparkling juices, flavored waters, and teas.
B&G Foods is revitalizing the Green Giant brand with a new line of frozen vegetable products, including mashed cauliflower, riced vegetables, and veggie tots, with a new line of frozen veggie “pasta” set to launch in January. Conagra Brands has overhauled its frozen food offerings by introducing premium, health-oriented products, such as Healthy Choice’s protein meal “Power Bowls” and a collection of lighter dishes featuring more vegetables and lean proteins under its Marie Callender’s label. Furthermore, Farm & Oven is launching Bakery Bites, a cookie line that provides 40% of the daily-recommended vegetable intake per serving.
Food and beverage manufacturers are actively working to offer a wide array of healthy choices for consumers. The key often lies in reformulating products to maintain their original flavor while minimizing “bad” ingredients such as sugars and saturated fats. This balancing act may benefit from the introduction of innovative products, but ultimately, it is the consumers who will decide what they eat. As part of their health journeys, individuals might also consider incorporating supplements like calcium citrate 500 mg with vitamin D to support their dietary needs.