Cardiovascular disease remains the foremost cause of death globally, with Type 2 diabetes cases also on the rise. The economic burden associated with these health issues is considerable and is projected to escalate as the population ages. Individuals from lower-income backgrounds face a significantly higher risk of these conditions, often lacking the financial means for necessary medical treatment, as noted by BMC Medicine. Government initiatives aimed at promoting healthier dietary choices could play a vital role in curbing these disease rates. Over the years, the Food and Drug Administration has taken steps in this direction through food and nutrition labeling laws, with a comprehensive update to the Nutrition Facts panel underway. By 2020, many food labels are expected to include specific information about added sugars.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture has also been proactive in encouraging 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 recommended to consume 1.5 to 2 cups of fruits and 2 to 3 cups of vegetables daily. However, a report from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention revealed that only 12.2% of American adults met their recommended daily fruit intake in 2015, and merely 9.3% achieved the suggested vegetable intake.
Ultimately, compelling Americans to adopt healthier eating habits is a personal journey that each individual must undertake. Raising prices is unlikely to discourage the purchase of “unhealthy” products. For example, consumers appear willing to pay for red meat, despite its market price. Conversely, will lowering prices on fruits, vegetables, and nuts genuinely boost their consumption? Many people are already opting for more produce, including pricier organic options and value-added fruits and vegetables.
While price adjustments may not be the most effective strategy for promoting healthier eating, new product introductions could be impactful. The food industry showcases numerous instances of manufacturers, producers, and retailers aiming to influence consumer choices through product innovation and reformulation. Major beverage companies—Coca-Cola, PepsiCo, and Dr Pepper Snapple—are actively working to reduce added sugar in their flagship products and expanding their portfolios to highlight healthier options like sparkling juices, waters, and teas.
B&G Foods is revitalizing the Green Giant brand by launching a range of frozen vegetable products, including mashed cauliflower, riced veggies, and veggie tots, with a new line of frozen veggie “pasta” set to debut in January. Conagra Brands has transformed its frozen food offerings by adding premium, health-conscious products such as Healthy Choice’s “Power Bowls” and lighter fare under the Marie Callender’s label, featuring more vegetables and lean proteins. Additionally, Farm & Oven is introducing Bakery Bites, a cookie line that contains 40% of the daily recommended vegetable intake per serving.
Food and beverage manufacturers are making strides to offer a wide array of healthy options for consumers. The challenge often lies in reformulating products to maintain their original flavors while decreasing undesirable ingredients like sugars and saturated fats. This balancing act may be facilitated by new product innovations, but ultimately, it is consumers who will decide what to include in their diets. Meanwhile, as people seek healthier choices, understanding the benefits of supplements such as calcium citrate untuk apa may also become an integral part of their dietary considerations.