Industry survey reveals thousands of healthier product choices
The results of a recent study by the Grocery Manufacturers Association reveal that in the past decade more than 30,000 healthier products—food and beverage choices with less calories, fats, sugars and sodium—flooded the market.
The 2014 Health & Wellness Survey was conducted by Georgetown Economic Services and analyzed consumer products between 2002 and 2013. GMA leadership says the survey demonstrates the way those in the food industry have responded to consumer needs in a significant way.
“Consumers want to eat better and they want to do so in a way that fits their lifestyles,” said Pamela Bailey, GMA president and CEO. “America's food and beverage companies have made available to consumers thousands of new and reformulated product choices that are less in calories, fats, sugar and sodium to help them build healthy diets for themselves and their families.”
Food and beverage companies reported they collectively have:
Eliminated or reduced trans fat in more than 11,000 product choices.
Eliminated or reduced saturated fat in more than 8,000 product choices.
Reduced sugar/carbohydrates in more than 5,500 product choices.
Reduced the calorie content of more than 5,500 product choices.
Reduced sodium in more than 6,500 product choices.
GMA said 94 percent of the companies participating in the survey are promoting an active lifestyle and healthy eating to consumers through multiple channels that include digital campaigns and labeling. In addition, 46 percent of companies introduced single-serve packaging to help consumers manage their caloric intake.
“GMA is proud of its member companies and the industry for its ongoing commitment to help Americans lead healthier lives,” Bailey said. “Together, we are providing consumers with the products, tools and information they need to construct a healthy diet and lead a more active lifestyle.”
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