Nutrition Study Shows Canned Foods Can Help Consumers Make Health Choices

A new study from Rutgers University, funded by the Canned Food Alliance, confirms that America's diet is out of shape. The study, published in the July/Sept. issue of Topics in Clinical Nutrition, summarized peer-reviewed research from 1996 to 2007 on Americans' dietary intake; food choice motivators, eating times and locations; and food preparation habits.

The research showed that people are eating too much fat, calories, added sugar and sodium, and not enough important nutrients such as fiber, vitamin A and calcium. For example, Americans are only getting 77% of the daily value recommended for vitamin A, due in part for not consuming enough fruits, vegetables and milk.

Meal habits and inadequate planning could be a factor of poor dietary intake. One-third of Americans decide what to make for dinner at the last minute and make dinner selections because they require little or no planning.

The purpose of the study was to better understand why Americans eat the way they do and to provide recommendations for how they can achieve a healthier diet by identifying the behaviors and motivators that influence food consumption. As part of the study, a panel of food, culinary and nutrition experts received the research results and developed a list of recommendations for making mealtime decisions.

Knowing that more than two-thirds of Americans aren't eating enough fruits and vegetables, canned food is one way to bridge the nutrient gap within time-constrained lifestyles. Several university studies confirmed that canned fruits and vegetables are just as nutritious as fresh and frozen, making them a convenient way for people to start eating more healthfully. Plus, canned foods are easy and accessible for everyone, everywhere, every day and play a crucial role in contributing to the nation's nutrition.

"We already know that canned food brings important nutrients to the table, but to confirm that Americans need convenient options is exciting news for the canned food industry," said Rich Tavoletti, executive director of CFA. "Eating healthfully doesn't have to be hard, and we're glad these recommendations remind consumers healthy eating can be achieved by incorporating convenient and nutritious canned food into meal preparation." For more information, contact Rich Tavoletti.