How do Americans perceive satisfying nutritional needs?

Consumers say they have some knowledge about nutrition. However, new research by the International Food Information Council shows that there are large gaps between consumers’ perceptions of their nutrient intakes as well as reality.

“While there is some disparity between perceived nutrient adequacy and actual nutrient intake, it is notable that consumers recognize the benefits their food can offer,”Sarah Romotsky is a registered dietitian who also serves as associate director for health and wellbeing at the IFIC Foundation. “Indeed, health-promoting foods and food components, like blueberries, yogurt, fish, milk and fortified breads and breakfast cereals, play an important role in meeting nutrient needs and improving overall health.”

However, almost 70% of respondents to the 2013 IFIC Functional Foods Consumer Survey believe that they are not meeting the requirements. “all or nearly all”They must meet their nutritional requirements.

The survey results and National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey data show gaps between the perceptions of respondents and their actual intakes. It is clear that perceptions and reality are not always consistent for nutrients such as vitamin A (68 percent perception vs. 32% consumption), potassium (61% vs. less then 3%) and fiber (67% vs. 5%).

A high percentage of consumers are meeting their B vitamin needs may be an indication that fortification can help them meet their nutritional needs.

“Breads, rice and cereals, which are often fortified with B Vitamins, may be helping consumers meet their B vitamin needs, without the consumer realizing the added value,”Romotsky.

However, knowledge of and how to consume a number of other beneficial components such as flavonoids, lutein, omega-3 fatty acids and zeaxanthin is still limited.

According to the survey, however, there is still high consumer interest in learning about foods that have benefits beyond basic nutrition. Nearly 9 out 10 Americans are interested in learning about food with health benefits beyond just basic nutrition. But they cite barriers like cost.

Visit www.amazon.com for more information www.foodinsight.org.