Food trends may come and go, but the increasing popularity of clean eating and the overall movement towards healthier choices—along with the decline of heavily processed foods—is here for the long haul. Consumers are becoming more mindful of how their dietary choices impact their wellness, opting for natural solutions rather than relying solely on medications to address health issues. Recent interest has surged in a variety of options, from adaptogenic plants that support adrenal health to the paleo diet as a means to foster well-being. While some of these approaches might seem extreme, they hold value. According to Nielsen’s Global Health and Ingredient Sentiment Survey, around 60% of Americans actively make dietary choices aimed at preventing issues like obesity, diabetes, and high cholesterol. Recent Packaged Facts research indicates that 26% of consumers report an increase in their consumption of plant-based milks—such as almond, coconut, or soy—while 21% are opting for vegetarian protein sources.
In response to this shift, major food manufacturers, including Nestle and Hormel, are introducing medical foods to encourage healthy lifestyles and assist consumers with various conditions. Additionally, larger companies are acquiring innovative startups that focus on new-wave ingredients to develop and market superfoods with health benefits. For instance, Dean’s Food recently purchased Uncle Matt’s Organics, known for its probiotic-infused juices, while General Mills invested $3 million in Purely Elizabeth, which incorporates Om Mushroom powder to enhance its wellness bars, offering benefits like increased energy, vitality, and immunity.
Consumer lifestyles and eating habits are undoubtedly evolving. Even those who would never fully commit to a paleo diet are increasingly adopting healthier living and eating practices. This shift is evident in the growing presence of certain food products in grocery aisles, including grass-fed meats and dairy, coconut oil, stevia, avocados, sweet potatoes, and grain-free options like zoodles. As more people question whether calcium citrate makes you constipated, awareness about dietary impacts continues to expand. Observing how this trend develops will be intriguing, but one thing is clear: it’s here to stay.