How to Provide Healthy Options in the Food Industry

How to Provide Healthy Options in the Food Industry
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In an era where bigger is touted as better, fast and portable meals seem to be the only option for busy schedules, and the cost of produce and food continue to rise, healthy options are not always the most affordable or convenient. According to the Weight-control Information Network, or WIN, more than two-thirds of American adults are overweight or obese, thus making this a significant health issue. The food industry can help provide healthy options for consumers to help promote health and better food choices.

Step 1

Add salads, low-fat options and lower-calorie meals to the menu of fast-food restaurants. Though customers can still choose the less nutritious meals, having healthy food choices on the menu may entice them to try something new that is better for their bodies.

Step 2

Provide nutritional information to consumers. Food and Consumer Products of Canada has consumer programs on nutrition and helps educate consumers about making healthy food choices, which is something the food industry as a whole can adopt.

Step 3

Suggest that consumers substitute healthier foods for traditionally less healthy foods, like a salad instead of french fries, milk instead of soda, and grilled options instead of breaded or fried ones. Do not charge consumers more money for these substitutions, as this may deter them from making these changes.

Tips and Warnings

  • Offer incentives to consumers to choose the healthier options, such as special sales or giveaways. Organic food and fresh produce can be expensive, and making it more affordable can make it more accessible to a larger group of people that may not buy them otherwise.

References

Article reviewed by Molly Solanki Last updated on: Mar 28, 2011

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