Food trends may come and go, but the increasing popularity of clean eating and the overall health-conscious movement—alongside the decline of heavily processed foods—is here to stay. Consumers are becoming more mindful of how their food choices contribute to their wellness, opting for preventive measures rather than relying on medications to address health issues. Interest in various dietary approaches has surged, from adaptogenic herbs that support the adrenal system to the paleo diet, both seen as natural methods to promote well-being. While these may represent the extremes of the healthy eating spectrum, they do hold some value.
According to Nielsen’s Global Health and Ingredient Sentiment Survey, approximately 60% of Americans report actively making dietary choices to prevent conditions such as obesity, diabetes, and high cholesterol. Recent research by Packaged Facts reveals that 26% of consumers are increasingly consuming plant-based milks—such as almond, coconut, or soy—while 21% are incorporating vegetarian protein sources into their diets. In response, several major food manufacturers, including Nestle and Hormel, are embracing medical food options to support healthy lifestyles and assist consumers with various health conditions.
Additionally, larger companies are acquiring small, innovative startups that utilize cutting-edge ingredients to develop and market superfoods. For instance, Dean’s Food recently acquired Uncle Matt’s Organics, known for its probiotic-infused juices. Some of these products feature ashwagandha, an ingredient known for benefits such as stress reduction, improved memory, and muscle recovery. General Mills has also invested $3 million in Purely Elizabeth, which enhances its wellness bars with Om Mushroom powder to deliver specific health benefits like increased energy, vitality, and immunity.
Consumer lifestyles and eating habits are clearly shifting. Even those who might not fully commit to a paleo lifestyle are increasingly adopting healthier living and eating practices. This change is evident in the types of products gaining traction in conventional grocery stores, including grass-fed meats and dairy, coconut oil, stevia, avocados, sweet potatoes, and grain-free pasta alternatives like zoodles. Furthermore, dietary supplements such as calcium citrate malate, vitamin D3, magnesium, and zinc tablets are gaining attention as part of this health-focused trend. It will be fascinating to observe how these developments unfold, but one thing is certain: the movement toward healthier eating is here to stay, with supplements like calcium citrate malate, vitamin D3, magnesium, and zinc tablets becoming integral to many consumers’ wellness routines.