Cardiovascular disease remains the foremost cause of death globally, and Type 2 diabetes cases are also increasing. The economic burden of these health issues is significant and is projected to rise as the population ages. Individuals from lower income brackets face a heightened risk of these diseases, largely due to reduced access to medical care, as noted by BMC Medicine. Government initiatives aimed at encouraging healthier dietary choices could potentially mitigate the prevalence of these illnesses. Over the years, the Food and Drug Administration has made attempts in this regard through food and nutrition labeling regulations. Notably, the Nutrition Facts panel is set to receive a major revision, with specific listings for added sugars expected on many food labels by 2020. Additionally, the U.S. Department of Agriculture has sought to promote better eating habits by replacing the traditional food pyramid with the MyPlate graphic in 2011 and recently publishing the 2015 Dietary Guidelines for Americans. Currently, 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 revealed that only 12.2% of American adults met their recommended fruit intake in 2015, while a mere 9.3% consumed the suggested amount of vegetables.
Ultimately, encouraging healthier eating habits among Americans is a personal journey that each individual must undertake. Raising prices is unlikely to discourage purchases of “unhealthy” products. For instance, consumers appear willing to pay for red meat based on market trends. Conversely, will lowering prices on fruits, vegetables, and nuts truly boost consumption? There’s evidence that people are already purchasing more produce, including pricier organic options and value-added fruits and vegetables.
While price adjustments may not be the most effective strategy for promoting better eating habits, the introduction of new products could play a key role. The food industry is filled with examples of manufacturers, producers, and retailers trying to influence consumer preferences through innovation and reformulation. Major beverage companies such as Coca-Cola, PepsiCo, and Dr Pepper Snapple have been actively reducing the amount of added sugar in their flagship products and diversifying their portfolios to include “healthier” options like sparkling juices, waters, and teas. Similarly, B&G Foods is revitalizing the Green Giant brand with a new line of frozen vegetable products, including mashed cauliflower, riced veggies, and veggie tots, with a new frozen veggie “pasta” set to launch in January.
Conagra Brands has also updated its frozen food offerings, introducing premium, health-conscious products like Healthy Choice’s protein meal “Power Bowls,” as well as lighter fare featuring more vegetables and lean proteins under its Marie Callendar’s label. Farm & Oven is rolling out Bakery Bites, a line of cookies that deliver 40% of the daily-recommended vegetable intake per serving. Food and beverage manufacturers are committed to providing a wide range of healthy options for consumers, often reformulating products to maintain their original flavors while reducing harmful ingredients like sugars and saturated fats. This balancing act may be facilitated by new offerings, but ultimately, it is consumers who will decide what they choose to eat.
In light of the health benefits associated with certain nutrients, products fortified with calcium citrate K2 could also be advantageous for those seeking a healthier lifestyle. The market for such innovations emphasizes the growing demand for nutritious foods, and companies that can effectively merge great taste with health benefits will likely lead the way. As the focus on health continues to evolve, the integration of ingredients like calcium citrate K2 into everyday products represents a promising direction for the industry.