Image courtesy of IFIC
 
According to the 13th Annual Food and Health Survey from the International  Food Information Council (IFIC) Foundation, more than one in three U.S. consumers (36%) are following a specific diet or eating pattern. The survey also finds that these Americans are increasingly averse to carbohydrates and sugar.

Among the top diets listed were intermittent fasting (10%), followed by paleo diet (7%), low-carb diet (5%), the Whole30 diet (5%), high-protein diet (4%), and ketogenic/high-fat diet (3%). What this tells us is that American consumers are looking for healthier options, especially in their baked goods, which is something for bakeries to consider on their menu.

The online survey, conducted with 1,009 Americans ages 18 – 80, also found that younger consumers (18-34) were more likely to diet. While health is a priority in food and beverage purchases, it still takes a backseat to other factors. Taste still reigns supreme, with 81% of those surveyed saying that it plays a part in purchasing decisions. The next most important factor is familiarity (64%), followed by healthfulness (61%), convenience (54%) and sustainability (39%).

For more detailed information on the survey’s findings, visit IFIC’s website.