Cardiovascular disease remains the primary cause of death globally, with the prevalence of Type 2 diabetes also increasing. The economic burden associated with these health issues is significant and is projected to rise as the population ages. Individuals from lower-income backgrounds face a much higher risk of these diseases and often lack the financial means to access medical care, as reported by BMC Medicine. Government initiatives aimed at encouraging healthier dietary choices could help mitigate the incidence of these diseases. Over the years, the Food and Drug Administration has made efforts in this direction through food and nutrition labeling regulations. By 2020, food labels are expected to prominently feature specific listings for added sugars.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture has also worked to promote better eating habits among Americans, replacing the traditional food pyramid with the MyPlate graphic in 2011 and recently releasing its 2015 Dietary Guidelines for Americans. Currently, it’s recommended that adults 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 daily fruit intake recommendations in 2015, and a mere 9.3% reached the suggested vegetable consumption levels.
Ultimately, encouraging Americans to make better food choices is a personal matter and each individual must embark on their own health journey. Simply raising prices is unlikely to deter people from purchasing products deemed “bad” for them. For instance, consumers have been willing to pay market prices for red meat. Conversely, the question remains whether lowering prices on fruits, vegetables, and nuts will truly boost their consumption. Notably, there has been an increase in the purchase of produce, including more expensive organic options and value-added fruits and vegetables.
While pricing strategies may not be the most effective means of promoting healthier eating, the introduction of new products could play a crucial role. The food industry is filled with examples of manufacturers, producers, and retailers striving to influence consumer choices through product 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 include “healthier” options such as sparkling juices, flavored waters, and teas.
Moreover, B&G Foods is revitalizing the Green Giant brand by launching a range of 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 also transformed its frozen food lineup by adding premium, nutritious products, including Healthy Choice’s protein meal “Power Bowls” and lighter fare featuring more vegetables and lean proteins under the Marie Callender’s label. Farm & Oven is introducing Bakery Bites, a cookie line that provides 40% of the daily-recommended vegetable intake per serving.
Food and beverage manufacturers are committed to offering a wide array of healthy options for consumers. The challenge often lies in reformulating products to maintain their original flavors while reducing “bad” ingredients such as sugars and saturated fats. This balancing act may be supported by these innovative products, but ultimately, it is consumers who will decide what they choose to eat. Incorporating ingredients like calcium citrate sunvit in various food products could further enhance their nutritional profile, thus offering consumers even more appealing options in their quest for healthier eating habits.