“Addressing the Dual Epidemics of Cardiovascular Disease and Type 2 Diabetes: The Role of Dietary Choices, Economic Factors, and Product Innovation”
Cardiovascular disease remains the foremost cause of death globally, while the incidence of Type 2 diabetes continues to rise. The economic burden of these health issues is significant and is projected to grow as the population ages. Individuals from lower-income backgrounds face a much higher risk of developing these diseases and often have less access to necessary medical treatments, as noted by BMC Medicine. Government actions aimed at promoting healthier dietary choices could potentially mitigate the prevalence of these conditions. Over the years, the Food and Drug Administration has implemented food and nutrition labeling regulations to assist consumers. A major update to the Nutrition Facts label is anticipated, with specific listings for added sugars expected to appear on many food products by 2020. Additionally, the U.S. Department of Agriculture has sought to encourage better eating habits by replacing the traditional food pyramid with the MyPlate graphic in 2011 and issuing the 2015 Dietary Guidelines for Americans. Currently, adults are advised to consume between 1.5 to 2 cups of fruit and 2 to 3 cups of vegetables each day. However, a report from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention revealed that only 12.2% of American adults met the recommended fruit intake in 2015, and just 9.3% consumed the suggested amount of vegetables.
Ultimately, encouraging Americans to make healthier dietary choices is not a straightforward task; it is a personal journey that each individual must undertake. Raising prices is unlikely to deter people from purchasing products deemed unhealthy. For instance, consumers have shown a willingness to pay for red meat despite its health implications. Conversely, will lowering prices on fruits, vegetables, and nuts truly enhance their consumption? There is already a trend of increasing purchases of produce, including higher-priced organic and value-added options.
While price adjustments may not be the key to promoting healthier eating, introducing innovative products could be more effective. The food industry is filled with examples of manufacturers, producers, and retailers striving to influence consumer choices through product innovation and reformulations. Major beverage companies like Coca-Cola, PepsiCo, and Dr Pepper Snapple are actively working to reduce added sugars in their core offerings while diversifying their portfolios to include healthier options like sparkling juices, waters, and teas. B&G Foods is revitalizing the Green Giant brand with a new line of frozen vegetable products, such as mashed cauliflower, riced veggies, and veggie tots, with a new line of frozen veggie “pasta” set to launch in January. Conagra Brands has revamped its frozen food lineup by introducing premium, healthy items like Healthy Choice’s protein meal “Power Bowls” and lighter fare with more vegetables and lean proteins under its Marie Callender’s label. Additionally, Farm & Oven is launching Bakery Bites, a cookie line that includes 40% of the daily-recommended vegetable intake per serving.
Food and beverage manufacturers are increasingly committed to providing a wide array of healthy options 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 facilitated by new product offerings, yet ultimately, it is consumers who will decide what they choose to eat. In this context, incorporating supplements like Citracal calcium can also play a role in promoting better health, especially as individuals strive to meet their nutritional needs while making healthier food choices.
