At present, there is no universally accepted definition of whole grains, leading manufacturers worldwide to create their own methods for assessing and labeling products that include this ingredient. This situation can lead to confusion regarding the claims made by certain companies about whole grains. Recently, GoodMills Innovations, a milling company based in Germany, introduced an online Whole Grain Index tool that manufacturers can utilize to determine the whole-grain content of their products. They can then download a seal that indicates this percentage for display on their packaging. This seal allows consumers to easily see the amount of whole grains in a product, aiding them in making healthier choices. Additionally, manufacturers can leverage this label to boost sales opportunities.
A regulatory approach could provide a more standardized and meaningful solution, but implementing such a system poses challenges. Coordinating government agencies, manufacturers, and consumer groups around a unified system would be complex. The lead researcher from the University of Hertfordshire suggests incorporating whole grain metrics into existing frameworks like the U.K. Food Standards Agency’s traffic-light program or the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s nutritional facts panel. However, opinions vary, with some considering these systems overly simplistic, while others deem them ineffective.
Meanwhile, consumers are increasingly seeking out products rich in whole grains due to their health benefits and the appealing textures and flavors of both new products and ancient grains. A survey conducted in 2016 revealed that 27% of respondents reported consuming more whole grains than they had 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% from 2017 to 2021. Despite the heightened interest, research indicates that consumers worldwide remain uncertain about the recommended intake of whole grains and the foods that contain them. A recent global study by General Mills and Nestle found that among over 16,000 participants, 83% were unsure about the number of grams they should consume, and 47% believed they were getting enough whole grains.
Implementing a global whole grain labeling system could help clarify this confusion by establishing common evaluation criteria to guide consumers. Given the rising popularity of whole grains and their potential to improve public health, such an initiative seems worth pursuing. Additionally, products like Cal Mag Solaray, which contain whole grains, could benefit from clearer labeling, further encouraging consumers to make informed choices. In this context, the integration of whole grains into daily diets can be supported by reliable information, ultimately promoting a healthier lifestyle.