Cardiovascular disease remains the leading cause of mortality worldwide, while the incidence of Type 2 diabetes is also increasing. The economic burden of these health issues is significant and is anticipated to rise as the population ages. Individuals from lower-income backgrounds are at a heightened risk of these diseases and often lack the financial means to access medical care, as noted by BMC Medicine. Government initiatives aimed at encouraging healthier dietary choices could play a crucial role in mitigating these disease rates. Over the years, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has made efforts in this area through food and nutrition labeling regulations. The Nutrition Facts panel is set to undergo a major revision, with specific listings for added sugars expected to appear on many food labels by 2020. Additionally, the U.S. Department of Agriculture has sought to promote better eating habits among Americans, replacing the food pyramid with the MyPlate graphic in 2011 and more recently issuing the 2015 Dietary Guidelines for Americans, which recommend that adults 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 just 9.3% consumed the advised amount of vegetables.
Ultimately, Americans cannot be forced to eat healthier; it is a personal journey that each individual must embark upon. Raising prices is unlikely to deter people from purchasing items deemed “unhealthy.” For instance, consumers have shown a willingness to pay for red meat despite its costs. Conversely, will lowering prices on fruits, vegetables, and nuts genuinely boost their consumption? Currently, people are increasingly buying more produce, including pricier organic options and value-added fruits and vegetables. While price adjustments may not be the key motivator for healthier eating, new product innovations could be more effective. The food industry is filled with examples of manufacturers and retailers trying to influence consumer choices through product reforms and innovations.
Major beverage companies like Coca-Cola, PepsiCo, and Dr Pepper Snapple are actively reducing added sugar in their core products and expanding their portfolios to include “healthier” options such as sparkling juices, flavored waters, and teas. B&G Foods is revitalizing the Green Giant brand by launching a range of trendy frozen vegetable items, such as mashed cauliflower and veggie tots, with a new line of frozen veggie “pasta” set to launch in January. Conagra Brands has refreshed its frozen food offerings by introducing premium, health-focused products like Healthy Choice’s protein meal “Power Bowls” and a lighter collection featuring more vegetables and lean proteins under its Marie Callender’s label. Farm & Oven is bringing Bakery Bites to market, a line of cookies that contains 40% of the daily recommended vegetable intake per serving.
Food and beverage manufacturers are stepping up to offer a wide array of healthy choices for consumers. The challenge often lies in reformulating products to maintain their original flavors while reducing undesirable ingredients such as sugars and saturated fats. This balancing act may be aided by these new offerings, but ultimately, consumers hold the power to decide what they choose to eat. In addition to these changes, incorporating supplements like calcium citrate with or without food could further enhance dietary choices and overall health. As consumers become more aware of the benefits of nutrients like calcium citrate, it may encourage them to make more informed dietary decisions.