09.01.09
Americans are recognizing the connection between food and overall health, with a recent survey showing that 89% agree certain foods have benefits that go beyond basic nutrition and may reduce disease risk. This percentage represents a significant increase from just two years ago, according to the International Food Information Council (IFIC) Functional Foods/Foods for Health Consumer Trending Survey. “This year’s survey findings show us that Americans are making the connection that foods can play an important role in achieving optimal health,” said Elizabeth Rahavi, RD, and associate director of wellness at IFIC. “Consumers’ awareness of many food and health relationships has reached an all-time high.”
According to the 2009 survey, the top functional foods named by consumers are: 1) fruits and vegetables; 2) fish, fish oil, seafood; 3) dairy (including milk and yogurt); 4) meat and poultry; and 5) herbs/spices, among others. But beyond consumer interest in individual foods, research shows people are increasingly associating nutrients with specific health benefits such as: calcium and vitamin D for bone health; whole grains for reduced risk of heart disease; antioxidants for protection against free radical damage; probiotics for digestive and immune health; and omega 3 fatty acids for cognitive development, especially in children. However, while consumers say they want to eat foods for these benefits, data suggest they are struggling to follow through and incorporate them into their diet.
According to the 2009 survey, the top functional foods named by consumers are: 1) fruits and vegetables; 2) fish, fish oil, seafood; 3) dairy (including milk and yogurt); 4) meat and poultry; and 5) herbs/spices, among others. But beyond consumer interest in individual foods, research shows people are increasingly associating nutrients with specific health benefits such as: calcium and vitamin D for bone health; whole grains for reduced risk of heart disease; antioxidants for protection against free radical damage; probiotics for digestive and immune health; and omega 3 fatty acids for cognitive development, especially in children. However, while consumers say they want to eat foods for these benefits, data suggest they are struggling to follow through and incorporate them into their diet.