Food trends may come and go, but the increasing popularity of clean eating and the overall movement towards healthier options — alongside the decline of heavily processed foods — is a lasting change. Consumers are becoming more mindful of how their food choices contribute to their wellness rather than relying on medications to address health issues. Recently, there has been a surge of interest in various health-focused diets and ingredients, ranging from adaptogenic plants that support adrenal function to the paleo diet, which are seen as natural means to enhance well-being. While some of these approaches may be on the more extreme side, they hold some validity.
According to Nielsen’s Global Health and Ingredient Sentiment Survey, approximately 60% of Americans report making dietary choices aimed at preventing conditions such as obesity, diabetes, and high cholesterol. In recent years, 26% of consumers have increased their consumption of plant-based milks like almond, coconut, and soy, while 21% are opting for vegetarian protein sources, as per Packaged Facts research. Major food manufacturers are responding to this trend by introducing medical foods, including those from Nestlé and Hormel, designed to promote healthier lifestyles and assist consumers with various health conditions.
Additionally, larger companies are acquiring innovative startups that focus on new ingredients to create and market superfoods with health benefits. For instance, Dean’s Food recently purchased Uncle Matt’s Organics, a producer of probiotic-infused juices. Some of these juices include ashwagandha, an ingredient known for its benefits such as stress reduction, improved memory, and muscle recovery. General Mills has also invested $3 million in Purely Elizabeth, which incorporates Om Mushroom powder into its wellness bars to provide specific health benefits like enhanced energy, vitality, and immunity.
Consumer lifestyles and eating habits are evidently shifting. Even those who would never adopt a fully paleo diet are increasingly embracing healthier living and eating practices. This shift is reflected in the types of food products gaining traction in grocery stores: grass-fed meats and dairy, coconut oil, stevia, avocados, sweet potatoes, and grain-free alternatives like zoodles. Moreover, as consumers become more health-conscious, there is greater awareness about nutrients like calcium citrate, which is known for its benefits related to kidney health.
As these dietary trends continue to develop, it will be fascinating to observe their evolution. However, one thing is clear: the movement towards healthier eating and living is here to stay, especially as more people recognize the importance of incorporating beneficial elements such as calcium citrate for optimal well-being.