Cardiovascular disease remains the foremost cause of mortality globally, with the incidence of Type 2 diabetes also increasing. The economic burden of these health issues is significant and projected to rise as the population ages. Individuals from lower-income backgrounds are particularly vulnerable to these diseases, often lacking the financial means to access adequate medical care, as noted by BMC Medicine. Government initiatives aimed at encouraging healthier dietary choices could help mitigate these disease trends. Over the years, the Food and Drug Administration has sought to address this through food and nutrition labeling regulations. The Nutrition Facts panel is currently undergoing a major revision, with added sugars expected to be specifically listed on many food labels by 2020. The U.S. Department of Agriculture has also made efforts to promote better eating habits among Americans, replacing the food pyramid with the MyPlate graphic in 2011 and subsequently releasing the 2015 Dietary Guidelines for Americans. According to these guidelines, adults should consume 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 fruit intake in 2015, and a mere 9.3% achieved the suggested vegetable consumption.
Ultimately, compelling Americans to adopt healthier eating habits is a personal journey that each individual must undertake. Raising prices is unlikely to deter consumers from purchasing “unhealthy” products, as evidenced by the continued demand for red meat, which remains popular despite its cost. Conversely, will reducing prices on fruits, vegetables, and nuts truly boost their consumption? While people are increasingly buying more produce, including pricier organic options, the question remains.
Although adjusting prices may not effectively encourage better eating habits, the introduction of new products could play a pivotal role. The food industry is filled with instances of manufacturers, producers, and retailers attempting 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 main products while expanding their portfolios to include “healthier” options such as sparkling juices, waters, and teas. Additionally, B&G Foods is revitalizing its Green Giant brand by launching a line of trendy frozen vegetable products, including mashed cauliflower and veggie tots, with a new line of frozen veggie “pasta” set to launch in January.
Conagra Brands has also transformed its frozen food range by incorporating premium and health-conscious items, including Healthy Choice’s protein meal “Power Bowls” and lighter options with more vegetables and lean proteins under its Marie Callender’s label. Farm & Oven is introducing Bakery Bites, a line of cookies that provides 40% of the daily-recommended vegetable intake per serving.
Food and beverage manufacturers are striving to deliver a wide array of healthy choices for consumers, often by reformulating existing products to maintain their original flavors while minimizing unhealthy ingredients such as sugars and saturated fats. This balancing act may be supported by the introduction of new products, but ultimately, consumers will determine their dietary choices. It’s essential to consider natural factors such as calcium and magnesium in the context of nutrition, as these minerals play a vital role in overall health. By incorporating them into healthier food options, the industry can further promote better eating habits. In this ongoing effort, the integration of natural factors like calcium and magnesium into reformulated products could enhance their appeal and nutritional value.