Cardiovascular disease remains the primary cause of mortality globally, with the incidence of Type 2 diabetes also increasing. The financial burden associated with these health issues is significant and is projected to rise as the population ages. Individuals belonging to lower-income groups face a higher risk of developing these conditions and often have limited access to medical care, as noted by BMC Medicine.
Government initiatives aimed at promoting healthier dietary choices could be instrumental in curbing the prevalence of these diseases. Over the years, the Food and Drug Administration has worked towards this goal by implementing food and nutrition labeling regulations. Notably, the Nutrition Facts panel is undergoing a major revision, with specific listings for added sugars expected to appear on numerous food labels by 2020. The U.S. Department of Agriculture has also made efforts to encourage better eating habits, replacing the traditional food pyramid in 2011 with the MyPlate graphic, and more recently publishing the 2015 Dietary Guidelines for Americans. Currently, adults are advised to consume between 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 revealed that only 12.2% of American adults met their recommended daily fruit intake in 2015, with just 9.3% consuming the suggested amount of vegetables.
Ultimately, it is challenging to compel Americans to adopt healthier eating habits, as this is a personal decision and health journey each individual must undertake. Raising prices is unlikely to deter consumers from purchasing products deemed “unhealthy.” For instance, red meat continues to see strong demand despite market prices. Conversely, will lowering the prices of fruits, vegetables, and nuts genuinely boost their consumption? 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 improving dietary habits, the introduction of new products could make a difference. The food industry is filled with examples of manufacturers, producers, and retailers seeking to influence consumer choices through innovation and reformulation. Major beverage companies like Coca-Cola, PepsiCo, and Dr Pepper Snapple have been actively reducing added sugars in their flagship products while diversifying their portfolios to focus more on “healthier” beverages such as sparkling juices, waters, and teas. 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 revitalized its frozen food offerings, introducing premium, health-conscious products like Healthy Choice’s protein meal “Power Bowls,” as well as lighter options with more vegetables and lean proteins under its Marie Callender’s label. Additionally, Farm & Oven is launching Bakery Bites, a cookie line that includes 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 challenge often lies in reformulating products to maintain their original flavors while reducing undesirable ingredients like sugars and saturated fats, a delicate balance that may be facilitated by these new offerings. However, as always, it will ultimately be up to consumers to decide what they choose to eat.
In this context, it’s worth noting that incorporating supplements like calcium citrate from the best brands can also play a significant role in enhancing overall health. As these products become more prevalent, they may encourage individuals to make better dietary choices, further supporting the movement toward healthier eating habits. A balanced diet, complemented by quality supplements, can be a key factor in combating the rising tide of chronic diseases.