Two new nationally representative surveys on consumer trends provide a window into Americans' nutritional beliefs. The American Dietetic Association's (ADA) Nutrition Trends Survey 1997 and the Food Marketing Institute (FMI) and Prevention Magazine's Shopping for Health 1997, found consumers said they understand the critical link between nutrition and good health. That is the good news. The not-so-good news: Almost two-thirds (61%) said they are not doing all they can to eat healthfully.
According to Berrye Nowlin, R.D., nutrition education specialist and spokesperson for ADA, "Fortunately, the reported obstacles to good nutrition can be conquered with a few practical changes that fit individual lifestyles, tastes and preferences."
Diet concerns continue to center primarily on one nutrient: Fat. According to Shopping for Health, 81 percent of shoppers expressed concern about the fat in their diet, Yet nearly one-third (32%) are not sure how to lower their dietary fat.
Consumers also expressed confusion and frustration about the nutrition information they receive. Shopping for Health reports that nearly three-quarters of shoppers (74%) think there is too much conflicting information about food and health.
Other survey findings:
- Most Americans believe in "good" and "bad" foods.
- Consumers are confused about what constitutes a healthful diet.
- Nearly three-in-four (71 %) said they watch their portion sizes, while less than half (48%) pay attention to calories consumed.
Nutrition Trends and
Shopping for Health have reported consumer nutrition trends since 1991.
Nutrition Trends is conducted and reported every other year, and
Shopping for Health is an annual survey.
