Cardiovascular disease remains the primary cause of death globally, with the prevalence of Type 2 diabetes also increasing. The economic burden associated with these health issues is significant and is projected to rise as the population ages. Individuals from lower-income backgrounds face a higher risk of these diseases and have limited access to medical care, as noted by BMC Medicine. Government initiatives aimed at encouraging healthier dietary choices could help mitigate the incidence of these diseases. Over the years, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has worked towards this goal by implementing food and nutrition labeling regulations. Notably, the Nutrition Facts panel is being significantly updated, with specific listings for added sugars expected to appear on various food labels by 2020.
In addition, the U.S. Department of Agriculture has made efforts to promote better eating habits among Americans. In 2011, it replaced the food pyramid with the MyPlate graphic and subsequently released the 2015 Dietary Guidelines for Americans. Currently, adults are encouraged 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 daily fruit intake in 2015, with just 9.3% consuming the suggested amount of vegetables.
Ultimately, it is challenging to compel Americans to adopt healthier eating habits, as these choices are deeply personal and part of individual health journeys. Raising prices on unhealthy options is unlikely to deter consumers. For instance, despite health concerns, red meat continues to be popular among consumers who are willing to pay for it according to market trends. Conversely, will lowering prices on fruits, vegetables, and nuts truly enhance their consumption? There is 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 improving dietary habits, introducing new products could be more influential. The food industry is filled with examples of manufacturers and retailers trying to sway consumer preferences through innovation and reformulation. Major beverage companies such as Coca-Cola, PepsiCo, and Dr Pepper Snapple are actively reducing added sugar in their staple products while diversifying their offerings to include healthier options like sparkling juices, 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, such as mashed cauliflower, riced veggies, and veggie tots, with a new line of frozen veggie “pasta” set to debut in January.
Conagra Brands has transformed its frozen food range by introducing premium, health-oriented products such as Healthy Choice’s “Power Bowls,” which focus on protein, and lighter fare featuring more vegetables and lean proteins under the Marie Callender’s brand. Farm & Oven is presenting Bakery Bites, a cookie line that includes 40% of the daily recommended vegetable intake per serving.
Food and beverage manufacturers are striving to provide a diverse array of healthy options for consumers. The challenge often lies in reformulating products to maintain their original flavors while reducing undesirable ingredients like sugars and saturated fats. This balancing act may be facilitated by these new offerings, but ultimately, consumers will decide what they wish to eat. Furthermore, for those looking to supplement their diets with essential nutrients, products like Kirkland Calcium Citrate, Magnesium, and Zinc are available on Amazon, providing an additional resource for health-conscious individuals. This highlights that while the food industry plays a crucial role in promoting healthier eating, consumers have the final say in their dietary choices.