Grains are a fundamental ingredient in snack food and bakery products and an important food in consumer diets. In fact, based on the 2020 IFIC Food and Health Survey, consumers view fiber, whole grains, and protein from plants as the healthiest, and most-sought-after, nutrients. The Dietary Guidelines for Americans has long recommended consumers eat between 3 to 8 ounce equivalents per day of total grains based on energy intake, and at least half of the total grains should come from whole-grain sources.
Just recently, the Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee issued its final report. This report provides the latest scientific information on a broad range of nutrition topics. The information and data contained within this report will help inform and shape the 2020-2025 Dietary Guidelines for Americans, which provide recommendations on healthy eating patterns. The report notes that nearly 75 percent of all Americans exceed the recommendations for refined grains, and 98 percent of Americans consume whole grains at less than the recommended levels. The report also mentions that the sources of whole grains are from a narrow array of foods. These findings create opportunities for new snack and bakery innovations using healthy grains across a broader range of product categories.