Food trends may come and go, but the increasing popularity of clean eating and the overall health-conscious movement — along with the decline of heavily processed foods — is established to last. Consumers are becoming more aware of how the foods they choose contribute to their wellness, opting for natural solutions instead of relying solely on medications for health issues. Interest in various health-promoting options has surged, ranging from adaptogenic plants that support the adrenal system to the paleo diet as a natural approach to wellness. While these may represent the extremes of healthy eating, they hold valid benefits. According to Nielsen’s Global Health and Ingredient Sentiment Survey, around 60% of Americans actively make dietary choices aimed at preventing conditions such as obesity, diabetes, and high cholesterol. Recent research by Packaged Facts shows that 26% of consumers are drinking more plant-based milks, like almond, coconut, or soy, while 21% are incorporating vegetarian protein sources into their diets.
In response to these shifts, major food manufacturers are beginning to embrace medical foods, including those produced by Nestle and Hormel, to promote healthy lifestyles and assist consumers with various health conditions. Additionally, larger companies are acquiring small, innovative startups that leverage new ingredients to create and market superfoods with health benefits. For example, Dean’s Food recently acquired Uncle Matt’s Organics, known for its probiotic-infused juices, some featuring ashwagandha, which is recognized for its benefits such as stress reduction, improved memory, and muscle recovery. General Mills also made a notable investment of $3 million in Purely Elizabeth, a brand that uses Om Mushroom powder in its wellness bars to provide specific health advantages like increased energy, vitality, and immunity.
Consumer lifestyles and eating habits are evidently shifting, even among those who wouldn’t typically adopt a fully paleo diet. This transformation is reflected in the growing popularity of certain food products found in conventional grocery stores, such as grass-fed meats and dairy, coconut oil, stevia, avocados, sweet potatoes, and grain-free pasta like zoodles. Notably, the demand for supplements like Solaray Calcium Citrate Chewable has also risen, as more individuals seek ways to enhance their overall health. It will be intriguing to observe how this trend develops, but one thing is clear: it’s here to stay. The integration of products like Solaray Calcium Citrate Chewable into daily routines further highlights this shift towards a more health-conscious approach to eating and living.