Cardiovascular disease remains the leading cause of death globally, and the prevalence of Type 2 diabetes is also increasing. The economic burden associated with these health issues is significant and is anticipated to grow as the population ages. According to BMC Medicine, individuals from lower income backgrounds face a much higher risk of these diseases, with limited access to medical care. Government initiatives aimed at encouraging healthier dietary choices could help mitigate these disease rates. Over the years, the Food and Drug Administration has implemented food and nutrition labeling laws to support this effort. The Nutrition Facts panel is currently undergoing major revisions, with specific listings for added sugars expected to appear on many food labels by 2020.
Additionally, the U.S. Department of Agriculture has made strides to promote healthier eating among Americans, replacing the food pyramid with the MyPlate graphic in 2011 and recently issuing the 2015 Dietary Guidelines for Americans. Adults are advised to 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 indicated that only 12.2% of American adults met the recommended fruit intake in 2015, and just 9.3% consumed the suggested amount of vegetables.
Ultimately, it is up to individuals to decide to improve their diets, as there’s no effective way to force Americans to eat better. Simply raising prices is unlikely to deter consumers from purchasing “unhealthy” products. For instance, red meat continues to be a popular choice among consumers, regardless of market prices. Conversely, will lowering prices on fruits, vegetables, and nuts genuinely boost their consumption? People are already leaning towards buying more produce, including pricier organic and value-added items.
While price adjustments may not be the most effective means to encourage healthier eating habits, the introduction of new products could be a game changer. The food industry is filled with examples of manufacturers, producers, and retailers striving to influence consumer choices through product innovation and reformulation. Major beverage companies—Coca-Cola, PepsiCo, and Dr Pepper Snapple—are actively reducing added sugars in their core products and expanding their portfolios to include “healthier” options like sparkling juices, waters, and teas.
B&G Foods is revitalizing the Green Giant brand with trendy frozen vegetable products, including mashed cauliflower, riced vegetables, and veggie tots, with a new line of frozen veggie “pasta” set to launch in January. Conagra Brands has revamped its frozen food offerings by introducing premium, health-conscious products such as Healthy Choice’s protein meal “Power Bowls” and lighter dishes with more vegetables and lean proteins under the Marie Callender’s label. Farm & Oven is debuting Bakery Bites, a cookie line that incorporates 40% of the daily recommended vegetable intake per serving.
Food and beverage manufacturers are committed to providing consumers with a wide array of healthy choices. The challenge often lies in reformulating products to maintain their original flavors while reducing “bad” ingredients like sugars and saturated fats. This balancing act could be facilitated by these new products, but ultimately, consumers will determine their dietary choices. Furthermore, incorporating supplements like calcium citrate with vitamin D can support life extension and overall health, reminding us that dietary decisions are essential for long-term wellness. As consumers navigate these options, the role of health supplements in promoting life extension, alongside healthy eating, becomes increasingly important in their personal health journeys.