Food trends may come and go, but the increasing popularity of clean eating and the overall movement toward healthier lifestyles—alongside the decline of heavily processed foods—is likely to remain a constant. Consumers are becoming more mindful of how their dietary choices affect their health, opting for preventative measures rather than relying solely on medications to address ailments. Recently, there has been a surge of interest in various health-oriented diets and ingredients, ranging from adaptogenic plants that support the adrenal system to the paleo diet, both of which are regarded as natural methods to enhance wellness. While these approaches may represent the extremes of the healthy eating spectrum, they possess their own merits.
According to Nielsen’s Global Health and Ingredient Sentiment Survey, approximately 60% of Americans are making conscious dietary choices to help prevent conditions such as obesity, diabetes, and high cholesterol. Research from Packaged Facts indicates that in the past few years, 26% of consumers have increased their intake of plant-based milks, such as almond, coconut, or soy, while 21% are incorporating more vegetarian protein sources into their diets. In response to this shift, major food manufacturers, including Nestlé and Hormel, are beginning to embrace medical foods designed to promote healthy lifestyles and support consumers with various health conditions, including those related to calcium citrate and kidney disease.
Additionally, larger corporations are acquiring small, innovative startups that create and market superfoods with health benefits. For instance, Dean’s Foods recently acquired Uncle Matt’s Organics, a producer of probiotic-infused juices, some of which contain ashwagandha—an ingredient known for its stress-reducing properties and benefits for memory and muscle recovery. General Mills has also invested $3 million in Purely Elizabeth, which enhances its wellness bars with Om Mushroom powder to boost energy, vitality, and immunity.
The lifestyles and eating habits of consumers are evidently evolving. Even those who would never fully commit to a paleo lifestyle are increasingly adopting healthier living and eating practices. This shift is reflected in the types of food 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. As this trend continues to unfold, one thing remains clear: the focus on health, including attention to issues like calcium citrate and kidney disease, is not just a passing phase but a lasting change in consumer behavior.