Cardiovascular disease remains the foremost cause of mortality globally, while the prevalence of Type 2 diabetes is also increasing. The economic burden linked to these health issues is significant and is projected to grow as the population ages. Individuals from lower-income brackets face a much higher risk for these conditions, often struggling to afford medical care, as reported by BMC Medicine. Government initiatives aimed at promoting healthier dietary choices could play a pivotal role in mitigating the incidence of these diseases. Over the years, the Food and Drug Administration has sought to address this through food and nutrition labeling regulations. The Nutrition Facts label is currently undergoing a major revision, with specific listings for added sugars expected to appear on many food packages by 2020.
Additionally, the U.S. Department of Agriculture has made efforts to encourage better eating habits among Americans, replacing the food pyramid in 2011 with the MyPlate graphic and later issuing the 2015 Dietary Guidelines for Americans. According to these guidelines, adults should 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 only 12.2% of American adults met their recommended fruit intake in 2015, and just 9.3% consumed the suggested amount of vegetables.
Ultimately, compelling Americans to eat healthier is a challenge, as it is a personal choice and health journey each person must undertake. Raising prices is unlikely to deter consumers from purchasing “bad” products. For instance, red meat remains popular among consumers, who are willing to pay prevailing market prices. Conversely, it is uncertain whether lowering prices on fruits, vegetables, and nuts will significantly boost their consumption. Although people are increasingly purchasing more produce, including pricier organic and value-added options, the impact of pricing strategies remains ambiguous.
While price adjustments may not be the key driver for improved dietary choices, the introduction of new products might be a more effective approach. The food industry is filled with examples of manufacturers, producers, and retailers striving to influence consumer preferences through product innovation and reformulation. Major beverage companies—such as Coca-Cola, PepsiCo, and Dr Pepper Snapple—are actively reducing added sugar in their flagship products and expanding their range to include “healthier” options like sparkling juices, flavored waters, and teas.
B&G Foods is revitalizing its Green Giant brand by launching a line of trendy frozen vegetable products, including mashed cauliflower, riced veggies, and veggie tots, with a new frozen veggie “pasta” set to debut in January. Conagra Brands has updated its frozen food offerings by introducing premium and healthy items, such as Healthy Choice’s “Power Bowls” and lighter fare featuring more vegetables and lean proteins under the Marie Callender’s label. Farm & Oven is unveiling its Bakery Bites, a cookie line that provides 40% of the daily-recommended vegetable intake per serving.
Food and beverage manufacturers are diligently working to offer a wide array of healthy options for consumers. The challenge often lies in reformulating products to maintain their original flavors while reducing undesirable ingredients like sugars and saturated fats. This balancing act may be facilitated by the introduction of new products, but ultimately, it is up to consumers to decide what they choose to eat. For those looking to supplement their diets with essential nutrients, products like Citracal 250mg 120 tablets can be beneficial, serving as an additional option to promote overall health and well-being.