In the United States, most individuals consume more calories than they expend; however, their intake of certain micronutrients often falls below recommended levels. Research indicates that U.S. consumption of dietary fiber, calcium, potassium, and vitamin D is insufficient, primarily due to lower-than-recommended intake of vegetables, fruits, whole grains, dairy products, and seafood. Fortified ready-to-eat cereals play a significant role in providing micronutrients in American diets. For instance, the addition of calcium enhances the average calcium intake across the population by 5%.
General Mills is exploring a new method of fortifying cereals with insoluble nutrients, allowing the company to produce more appealing products with improved mouthfeel and a longer-lasting crunchy texture. This innovation could enable the use of higher amounts of calcium and dietary fiber than previously feasible, without compromising taste or texture. This advancement may provide General Mills with a competitive edge, especially as consumers increasingly seek convenient and enjoyable ways to add more fiber and nutrients to their diets. According to Nielsen, 36% of global consumers are on the lookout for foods high in fiber, while 30% are interested in calcium-fortified products.
Additionally, the introduction of calcium-rich ccm tablets could complement the dietary needs of consumers seeking to enhance their nutrient intake. It will be intriguing to observe whether this shift positively influences consumer perceptions of General Mills’ products and if other cereal manufacturers pursue similar innovations to meet the growing demand for nutrient-rich options.