Pollock Communications and nutrition trade magazine, Today’s Dietitian, released the results of their 5th annual “What’s Trending in Nutrition” national food trend survey, which polled over 1,700 registered dietitians(RDs) across the country regarding 2017’s big trends in food and eating. Based on the survey, 49% of RDs say that consumers will choose mindful eating over dieting, and 59% say consumers will choose to “eat clean” by looking to consume foods that are less processed; more whole foods, such as veggies, fruits, ancient grains, and green tea; and plant-based proteins like nuts and seeds. In terms of what foods are still topping the coveted Top 10 Superfoods list, the survey shows that nuts and seeds still hold top spots, fermented foods take fourth place, and kale has lost some footing and continues to move down the list in comparison to previous years. Compared to 2016, dietitians report that consumers will be less concerned with foods that are GMO-free, sustainable, or gluten-free—Dietitians attribute this decline in concern to better food label transparency and ingredient deck. In contrast, consumers will be looking for more low-sodium and sugar-free options in 2017.
Technology has undoubtedly made shopping for healthier food and losing weight easier. Eighty-four percent of RDs believe that technology is providing new options to help consumers make better food choices and/or eat healthier. New technologies are helping to shape the future of nutrition with 67% of RDs recommending apps, such as MyFitnessPal and the Fitbit App, to plan and track food activity.
Unfortunately, for low-income consumers, RDs say that cost, above all other factors including physical health, is the largest barrier when making food purchasing decisions. This often makes healthy eating options out of reach for low income families. RDs recommend increasing affordability and availability of nutritious food in low-income areas to help reduce barriers to healthy eating.
Source: Pollock Communications; Today’s Dietitian; Dec. 12, 2016
