Report: Consumers Spend More On Processed Foods And Sweets

While Americans spend a lower percentage of income on groceries than they did 30 years ago, close to a quarter of grocery dollars (22.9 percent) on processed foods and sweets, about double the 11.6 percent rate of 1982, the Bureau of Labor Statistics figures show, according to The Lempert Report. For the full story, click here. 

Editor’s Insight: This is an interesting analysis of eating trends in the U.S. that gives some insight into the nation’s obesity challenge. The economics of producing processed food has made processed food more affordable for consumers. Hence, consumption of processed food has increased at the expense of food prepared from scratch.

The federal government, with the support of the food industry, has focused on educating people about nutrition and healthier habits. Habits take time to develop. It will take time to change them. 07-11-12 By Elliot Maras