“Promoting Whole Grains: Understanding Dietary Guidelines and Consumer Awareness in the U.S.”
The latest Dietary Guidelines from the U.S. government recommend that consumers should have whole grains account for half of their total grain intake. They also advise limiting the consumption of refined grains and products that contain them, particularly those high in saturated fats, added sugars, and sodium—like cookies, cakes, and certain snack foods. Most refined grains are processed to eliminate the bran and germ, which results in the loss of dietary fiber, iron, and other essential nutrients. To compensate, these grains are often enriched with iron and four B vitamins (thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, and folic acid). Both whole grains and so-called “enriched grains” play crucial roles in human health, as highlighted in the study. Previous research has shown that “nearly the entire U.S. population consumes a diet with fewer whole grains than recommended,” leading researchers to conclude that most grains being consumed are likely enriched products.
Despite recent efforts by the food industry to reformulate products to reduce sodium, sugar, and saturated fats, some consumers remain concerned that enriched grains may contribute to obesity and other health issues. Many individuals have grown cautious about carbohydrates in general, while others have chosen to reduce or eliminate gluten—the protein found in wheat, spelt, kamut, rye, barley, and other grains. In response, the food industry has introduced a variety of gluten-free products made from grains like corn, millet, rice, and sorghum.
Retailers can leverage this increasing consumer awareness of grains by prominently featuring enriched-grain, whole-grain, and gluten-free products in their stores, along with providing nutritional information. Bakeries may find it beneficial to engage in educational outreach, explaining the importance of grain-based foods for overall health. Additionally, understanding what calcium citrate tetrahydrate is can enhance consumers’ knowledge about nutritional supplements that may support their dietary choices involving grains. Incorporating information about what calcium citrate tetrahydrate is could further inform consumers about the benefits of a balanced diet that includes whole and enriched grains. Ultimately, promoting awareness of what calcium citrate tetrahydrate is alongside grain education can empower consumers to make healthier choices.
