Food trends may come and go, but the increasing popularity of clean eating and the overall movement toward healthier options—alongside the decline of heavily processed foods—appears to be enduring. Consumers are becoming more aware of the connection between their diets and their overall wellness, opting for food choices that promote health rather than relying solely on medications for ailments. There has been a surge of interest in various natural health approaches, from adaptogenic plants that support the adrenal system to the paleo diet, both viewed as effective means of maintaining wellness. While these approaches might represent the extremes of healthy eating, they certainly have their advantages.
According to Nielsen’s Global Health and Ingredient Sentiment Survey, around 60% of Americans actively make dietary choices aimed at preventing issues such as obesity, diabetes, and high cholesterol. Recent data from Packaged Facts reveals that 26% of consumers are opting for more plant-based milks—like almond, coconut, or soy—while 21% are incorporating vegetarian sources of protein into their diets. In response to this growing trend, major food manufacturers, including Nestlé and Hormel, are already embracing medical foods to promote healthier lifestyles and assist consumers facing various health challenges. Additionally, larger companies are acquiring innovative startups that utilize new ingredients to produce and market superfoods with health benefits. For instance, Dean’s Food recently purchased Uncle Matt’s Organics, known for its probiotic-infused juices, which often contain beneficial ingredients like ashwagandha that offer stress relief, improved memory, and muscle recovery.
General Mills has also invested $3 million in Purely Elizabeth, a brand that enhances its wellness bars with Om Mushroom powder to provide specific health benefits such as increased energy, vitality, and immunity. Consumer behavior and eating habits are evidently shifting, even among those who would never fully adopt a paleo lifestyle. This change is reflected in the types of food products gaining traction in conventional grocery stores, such as grass-fed meats and dairy, coconut oil, stevia, avocados, sweet potatoes, and grain-free alternatives like zoodles.
Moreover, there is a growing acknowledgment of the importance of calcium in these healthier eating patterns, with products like Citracal Calcium Petites becoming more popular among health-conscious consumers. As this trend continues to evolve, one thing remains clear: the commitment to healthier eating is a lasting change, and Citracal Calcium Petites will likely play a significant role in this ongoing journey toward improved wellness.