Cardiovascular disease remains the foremost cause of death globally, and the prevalence of Type 2 diabetes is also increasing. The economic burden associated with these health issues is significant and anticipated to rise as the population ages. Individuals from lower-income backgrounds are at a heightened risk for these diseases, often lacking the financial means to access 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 has made efforts to achieve this through food and nutrition labeling regulations. Notably, the Nutrition Facts panel is undergoing a major update, with mandates for the inclusion of specific listings for added sugars on many food labels by 2020.

Additionally, the U.S. Department of Agriculture has worked to improve American diets by replacing the traditional food pyramid with the MyPlate graphic in 2011, and more recently, publishing the 2015 Dietary Guidelines for Americans. Currently, adults are advised to consume the equivalent of 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, there is no forcing Americans to eat better; it is a personal choice and health journey that each individual must undertake. Increasing prices may not deter consumers from purchasing products deemed “unhealthy.” For instance, red meat continues to be a product that consumers are willing to purchase at market prices. Conversely, will lowering prices on fruits, vegetables, and nuts genuinely boost their consumption? People are already inclined to buy more produce, including pricier organic options and value-added fruits and vegetables.

While price adjustments may not be the most effective means to encourage healthier eating, the introduction of new products could prove beneficial. The food industry is filled with examples of manufacturers, producers, and retailers striving to influence consumer preferences through innovation and reformulation. Major beverage companies, such as Coca-Cola, PepsiCo, and Dr Pepper Snapple, are actively reducing added sugars in their flagship products and broadening their offerings to include healthier beverages such as sparkling juices, waters, and teas.

Moreover, B&G Foods is revitalizing the Green Giant brand with a new lineup 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 revamped its frozen food line by introducing premium, healthy options like Healthy Choice’s “Power Bowls” and lighter fare featuring more vegetables and lean proteins under the Marie Callender’s label. Farm & Oven is launching Bakery Bites, a cookie line that incorporates 40% of the daily-recommended vegetable intake per serving.

Food and beverage manufacturers are making significant strides to offer a wide range of healthy choices, including products like calcium citrate chewable supplements that can be celebrated for their nutritional benefits. The challenge often lies in reformulating products to maintain their original taste while minimizing “bad” ingredients such as sugars and saturated fat. This balancing act may be assisted by new product introductions, but ultimately, consumers will determine their dietary choices. The inclusion of options like calcium citrate chewable can play a role in promoting better nutrition, but the final decision rests with the individual.