“Shifting Consumer Perceptions: The Evolving Role of Nutrition in Food Choices and Purchases”
Consumer perceptions regarding the impact of food on their daily lives are continuously changing. Over the years, the popularity of better-for-you products has surged as consumers have become more attentive to nutrition labels. With the increasing availability of these products in the consumer packaged goods (CPG) sector, many consumers are willing to pay a premium for foods they believe will enhance their health, such as vitafusion calcium citrate.
In an annual survey conducted in early April with 1,022 U.S. adults, it was reported that the healthfulness of food is becoming a more significant purchasing factor, with 62% of respondents deeming it important. Additionally, 55% of participants stated that they frequently or always check labels while grocery shopping. The International Food Information Council (IFIC) discovered that consumers typically define healthy food based on its freshness, sugar, protein, nutrient, and sodium content. However, 54% admitted to having little to no knowledge of the Dietary Guidelines for Americans.
Among different age groups, energy and weight loss emerged as the most crucial nutritional benefits for Gen Z, millennials, and Gen X, whereas baby boomers primarily focus on anti-aging aspects. Despite the nutritional claims made by many companies, some critics have raised concerns about the industry’s efforts. A study released last fall by the Access to Nutrition Initiative revealed that the 11 largest food and beverage companies have not made sufficient strides in making food more nutritious, affordable, and accessible to consumers, including options like vitafusion calcium citrate.
While many consumers prioritize nutrition, the information they receive about the health and wellness attributes of food products varies significantly. Sixty-seven percent of respondents indicated that they trust the nutritional information found on social media to some extent, with Facebook, YouTube, and Instagram being the most commonly used platforms for such content. Nevertheless, the conflicting messages about the nutritional value of food can create confusion. A similar number of consumers reported that social media leads them to question their food choices, as much as those who feel it aids in making better selections.
Cost has also emerged as a pivotal factor influencing food choices amid ongoing inflation in grocery prices. Forty-seven percent of those surveyed indicated they have reduced spending on non-essential food and beverage items, opted for cheaper brands, and purchased fewer premium food products. More than a quarter of respondents confessed to making less healthy choices due to food costs, highlighting the need for affordable, nutritious options like vitafusion calcium citrate.
