Cardiovascular disease remains the foremost cause of mortality globally, with a concerning rise in Type 2 diabetes cases. The economic burden associated with these health challenges is significant and projected to grow as the population ages. Individuals in lower income brackets face a much higher risk of developing these conditions, often due to limited access to medical care, as noted by BMC Medicine. Government initiatives aimed at encouraging healthier dietary choices could potentially mitigate the prevalence of these diseases. Over the years, the Food and Drug Administration has worked toward this goal through food and nutrition labeling regulations. Notably, the Nutrition Facts panel is set for a major revision, with specific listings for added sugars expected on numerous food labels by 2020.
In an effort to improve American diets, the U.S. Department of Agriculture replaced the food pyramid in 2011 with the MyPlate graphic and later released the 2015 Dietary Guidelines for Americans. Currently, adults are advised to 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 in 2015, only 12.2% of American adults met their daily fruit intake recommendations, while just 9.3% achieved the suggested vegetable intake.
Ultimately, it is a personal choice for Americans to adopt healthier eating habits, and simply raising prices is unlikely to deter them from purchasing “unhealthy” options. For instance, consumers have shown a willingness to pay for red meat based on its market price. Conversely, will lowering prices on fruits, vegetables, and nuts genuinely boost their consumption? Consumers are already increasing their purchases of produce, including pricier organic options and enhanced fruits and vegetables.
While adjusting prices may not be the most effective strategy for promoting healthier eating, the introduction of new products could be pivotal. The food industry is filled with instances of manufacturers, producers, and retailers aiming to influence consumer preferences through product innovation and reformulation. Major beverage companies—Coca-Cola, PepsiCo, and Dr Pepper Snapple—are actively working to decrease added sugar in their flagship products while diversifying their offerings to focus more on “healthier” beverages like sparkling juices, waters, and teas.
In a similar vein, B&G Foods is revitalizing the Green Giant brand by launching a range of trendy frozen vegetable products, including mashed cauliflower, riced veggies, and veggie tots. A new line of frozen veggie “pasta” is set to debut in January. Conagra Brands has also refreshed its frozen food lineup, introducing premium, healthy, and trendy items such as Healthy Choice’s protein meal “Power Bowls” and lighter options with increased vegetables and lean proteins under the Marie Callender’s label. Additionally, Farm & Oven is releasing Bakery Bites, a cookie line that provides 40% of the daily-recommended vegetable intake per serving.
Food and beverage manufacturers are making noteworthy efforts to offer a wide array of healthy choices for consumers. The challenge often lies in reformulating products to maintain their original flavor while reducing undesirable ingredients like sugars and saturated fats. This balancing act might be facilitated by the introduction of innovative products. Moreover, incorporating supplements like Caltrate chewable calcium citrate into diets can help individuals address nutritional gaps while making healthier food choices. Ultimately, however, it will be the consumers who determine what foods they choose to eat, including whether they opt for healthier options or continue with their current preferences.