The concept of “Food as Medicine” is almost as old as food itself, with the connection between diet and health recognized since early times. Today, thanks to scientific evidence supporting the link between nutrition and well-being, and a deep understanding of the potential benefits or harms of various ingredients on the human body, food producers are challenged to develop food alternatives that help maintain healthy diets and even prevent chronic diseases.
Embracing this concept, the food industry has also committed to promoting nutritional education and creating more equitable access to foods with potential health benefits. This translates into positive outcomes for consumers and lower healthcare costs. Dariush Mozaffarian, MD, DrPH, director of the Food is Medicine Institute, has stated that “the inability to access healthy foods is literally lethal” and that although thousands of consumers—at least in the United States—know that their diets are making them sick, many feel powerless to address the problem.
In Latin America, according to data presented by Euromonitor, consumers are increasingly treating food as medicine. In the past year, 60% of consumers in this region reported seeking healthy ingredients in their food and beverages, while 41% said they carefully read nutritional labels. There is also a growing consumption of dietary supplements and vitamins, as well as high-protein and plant-based products. Additionally, new laws, regulations, and taxes on labeling are influencing the packaged and processed food industry.
Experts invite food producers to integrate the concepts of nutrition and Food as Medicine into their developments and to make economic investments in research that will make processed and packaged foods healthier. The Food as Medicine movement includes improving access to nutritious foods, protecting the environment, promoting sustainable agricultural practices, and educating communities on how to make informed decisions about their daily diets.
Regarding food manufacturing, one possible approach is to incorporate specialized technologies that enhance the nutritional value of foods while simultaneously delivering benefits such as improving metabolism, boosting the immune system, increasing energy levels, and providing essential vitamins. This can be achieved through specialized, custom-made technological innovations that enhance the nutritional profile of products.
The integration of these approaches not only meets the demands of the current market but also aligns the industry with global sustainability and public health goals. By adopting a holistic vision that considers both consumer health and environmental impact, the food industry can play a crucial role in building a healthier and more sustainable future for all.
Chehtman, A. (October 12, 2023). Key Factors Shaping Food Consumption in Latin America. Food and Nutrition. https://www.euromonitor.com/article/key-factors-shaping-food-consumption-in-latin-america
Firth. S. (May 22, 2024). Nutrition Experts Call on Congress to Advance ‘Food Is Medicine’ Movement. MedPageToday. https://www.medpagetoday.com/primarycare/dietnutrition/110282
Frist, B. (March 11, 2024). The Surest And Safest Way To Maximize Your Health: Food As Medicine. Forbes. https://www.forbes.com/sites/billfrist/2024/03/11/the-surest-and-safest-way-to-maximize-your-health-food-as-medicine/?sh=5e4a910433b4
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