Currently, there is no universally accepted definition of whole grains, which has led manufacturers worldwide to create their own methods for assessing and labeling products that contain these ingredients. This situation can result in confusion and inconsistency regarding the claims made by various companies about whole grains. Recently, GoodMills Innovations, a German milling firm, introduced an online Whole Grain Index tool that allows manufacturers to calculate the whole-grain content of their products. They can then download a seal to display the percentage of whole grains on their packaging. This seal enables consumers to easily identify healthier options. Additionally, manufacturers can leverage the label to boost sales opportunities.
While a regulatory approach could provide a more uniform and meaningful system, questions remain about implementation. Aligning government agencies, manufacturers, and consumer groups behind a single framework would be a significant challenge. The lead researcher from the University of Hertfordshire study suggests incorporating whole grain measurements into existing systems like the U.K. Food Standards Agency’s traffic-light program or the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s nutritional facts panel. However, some critics find these systems too simplistic, while others deem them ineffective.
Amid this backdrop, people are increasingly seeking out products that contain whole grains, motivated by their health benefits, interesting textures, and flavors of both new products and ancient grains. A survey conducted in 2016 revealed that 27% of respondents reported consuming more whole grains than they had six months earlier. According to Technavio, the global whole grain foods market is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate of 6.7% from 2017 to 2021.
Despite this heightened interest, studies indicate that consumers worldwide remain uncertain about the recommended intake of whole grains and which foods contain them. A recent global study conducted by General Mills and Nestlé found that among more than 16,000 respondents, 83% were unsure of the grams of whole grains they should be consuming, and 47% believed they were consuming sufficient amounts. A global labeling system for whole grains could potentially alleviate this confusion by establishing standardized evaluation criteria to guide consumers. Given the growing popularity of whole grains and their potential role in enhancing public health, efforts to create such a system seem worthwhile.
Moreover, as consumers become more health-conscious, there is also a rising interest in products fortified with essential nutrients like calcium magnesium citrate. By integrating whole grains with these nutrients, manufacturers could offer even more health benefits, capturing the attention of those looking to improve their dietary intake. Overall, a global standard for whole grain labeling, possibly combined with nutrient fortification such as calcium magnesium citrate, could significantly enhance consumer understanding and promote healthier eating habits.