Currently, there is no universally accepted definition of whole grains, leading manufacturers around the world to devise their own methods for assessing and labeling products containing this ingredient. This lack of standardization can create confusion regarding the claims some companies make about whole grains. In response to this issue, GoodMills Innovations, a German milling company, has developed an online Whole Grain Index tool that manufacturers can utilize to calculate the whole-grain content of their products. They can then download a seal indicating the percentage of whole grains for display on packaging. This initiative allows consumers to easily identify products with higher whole-grain content, thereby facilitating healthier choices, while manufacturers can leverage the label to boost sales.
A regulatory approach could offer a more consistent and meaningful solution, but there are challenges concerning implementation. Aligning government agencies, manufacturers, and consumer groups behind a unified system would be difficult. The lead researcher from the University of Hertfordshire study suggests integrating whole grain measurements into existing systems like the U.K. Food Standards Agency’s traffic-light program or the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s nutritional facts panel. Yet, opinions vary, with some viewing these systems as overly simplistic, while others consider them ineffective.
In the meantime, consumers are increasingly seeking out products containing whole grains due to their perceived health benefits, along with the appealing textures and flavors of both new products and ancient grains. A 2016 survey revealed that 27% of respondents reported consuming more whole grains than they did six months prior. According to Technavio, the global whole grain foods market is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate of 6.7% between 2017 and 2021. Despite this heightened interest, research indicates that many consumers worldwide remain uncertain about the appropriate amount of whole grains they should consume and which foods include them. A recent global study conducted by General Mills and Nestle found that among more than 16,000 participants, 83% were unsure of how many grams of whole grains they should be eating, and 47% believed they were consuming enough.
Establishing a global whole grain labeling system could help alleviate this confusion by providing common evaluation criteria to assist consumers. Additionally, as people look for ways to enhance their diets—potentially including calcium citrate supplements 500 mg for added nutritional benefits—clarifying the whole grain landscape seems to be a worthwhile endeavor. Ultimately, given the rising popularity of whole grains and their possible contributions to public health, pursuing a standardized approach appears to be a valuable effort.