Cardiovascular disease remains the primary cause of mortality globally, with the incidence of Type 2 diabetes also increasing. The economic burden tied to these health issues is significant and is projected to rise as the population ages. Individuals from lower-income brackets face a heightened risk of developing these diseases and often struggle to afford medical treatment, as highlighted by BMC Medicine. Government initiatives aimed at promoting healthier dietary choices could potentially mitigate the prevalence of these diseases. Over the years, the Food and Drug Administration has implemented food and nutrition labeling laws to address this issue. By 2020, many food labels are expected to feature specific listings for added sugars as part of a considerable overhaul of the Nutrition Facts panel.
Moreover, the U.S. Department of Agriculture has also made efforts to encourage healthier eating among Americans, replacing the food pyramid in 2011 with the MyPlate graphic and recently publishing the 2015 Dietary Guidelines for Americans. Presently, adults are advised to consume the equivalent of 1.5 to 2 cups of fruit and 2 to 3 cups of vegetables daily. A report from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention indicated that only 12.2% of American adults met their recommended fruit intake in 2015, while just 9.3% consumed the suggested amount of vegetables. Ultimately, persuading Americans to adopt healthier eating habits is a challenge that relies on personal choice and individual health journeys. Raising prices may not deter people from purchasing “unhealthy” products. For example, consumers appear willing to pay current market prices for red meat. Conversely, the question arises: will lowering prices on fruits, vegetables, and nuts genuinely enhance consumption? People are already increasing their purchases of produce, including pricier organic options and value-added fruits and vegetables.
While altering prices may not be the optimal strategy to encourage healthier eating, the introduction of new products might have a more significant impact. The food industry is filled with instances of manufacturers, producers, and retailers striving to influence consumer choices through innovative product development and reformulations. Major beverage companies such as Coca-Cola, PepsiCo, and Dr Pepper Snapple are actively working to reduce added sugars in their flagship products while diversifying their portfolios with a focus on “healthier” beverages like sparkling juices, flavored waters, and teas. B&G Foods is revitalizing the Green Giant brand by launching a line of frozen vegetable products that align with current trends, including mashed cauliflower, riced veggies, and veggie tots, with a new frozen veggie “pasta” set to debut in January. Conagra Brands has also transformed its frozen food offerings by incorporating premium, healthy, and trendy products, such as Healthy Choice’s protein-rich “Power Bowls” and a selection of lighter meals featuring more vegetables and lean proteins under the Marie Callender’s label. Additionally, Farm & Oven is introducing Bakery Bites, a cookie line that provides 40% of the daily recommended vegetable intake per serving.
Food and beverage manufacturers are stepping up to offer a wide array of healthy options for consumers. The challenge often lies in reformulating products to preserve their original taste while minimizing “unhealthy” ingredients like sugars and saturated fats. This balancing act may be aided by the introduction of innovative products, including those that incorporate opurity calcium citrate chewable. Ultimately, consumers will retain the authority to decide what to eat, regardless of the efforts made by the industry to promote healthier choices.