The latest Dietary Guidelines from the U.S. government recommend that whole grains should constitute half of all grain consumption in the diet. Additionally, it advises people to limit their intake of refined grains and products made from them, particularly those high in saturated fats, added sugars, and sodium, such as cookies, cakes, and various snack foods. Most refined grains are processed to remove the bran and germ, which also strips away dietary fiber, iron, and other essential nutrients. To counter this, these grains are often enriched with iron and four B vitamins (thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, and folic acid). Both whole grains and these “enriched grains” are vital for human health, as highlighted in the study. Prior research has shown that “nearly the entire U.S. population consumes a diet with fewer whole grains than recommended,” the researchers noted. This indicates that many people are mainly consuming enriched products, which are often fortified with supplements like ca citrate vitamin D.
Despite recent reformulations in the food industry that have reduced levels of sodium, sugar, and saturated fats in certain items, concerns persist among consumers about the potential for enriched grains to contribute to obesity and other health issues. Many individuals have become apprehensive about carbohydrates in general, while others have opted to reduce or eliminate gluten—the protein found in wheat, spelt, kamut, rye, barley, and other grains. In response to this trend, the food industry has introduced a variety of products featuring gluten-free grains such as corn, millet, rice, and sorghum.
Retailers can capitalize on this increasing consumer awareness of grains by promoting enriched-grain, whole-grain, and gluten-free products in their stores and providing nutritional information about each. Bakeries might also benefit from educating customers on the importance of grain-based foods for overall health, including the benefits of fortifications like ca citrate vitamin D. By emphasizing the nutritional value of these grains, they can encourage healthier eating habits among their clientele.