Is "processed" a four-letter word? The role of processed foods in achieving dietary guidelines and nutrient recommendations.
This paper, based on the symposium "Is 'Processed' a Four-Letter Word? The Role of Processed Foods in Achieving Dietary Guidelines and Nutrient Recommendations in the U.S." describes ongoing efforts and challenges at the nutrition-food science interface and public health; addresses misinformation about processed foods by showing that processed fruits and vegetables made important dietary contributions (e.g., fiber, folate, potassium, vitamins A and C) to nutrient intake among NHANES 2003-2006 participants, that major sources of vitamins (except vitamin K) were provided by enrichment and fortification and that enrichment and fortification helped decrease the percentage of the population below the Estimated Average Requirement for vitamin A, thiamin, folate, and iron; describes how negative consumer perceptions and consumer confusion about processed foods led to the development of science-based information on food processing and technology that aligns with health objectives; and examines challenges and opportunities faced by food scientists who must balance consumer preferences, federal regulations, and issues surrounding food safety, cost, unintended consequences, and sustainability when developing healthful foods that align with dietary guidelines.
Jean Mayer USDA Human Nutrition Research Center on Aging, School of Medicine, Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy, Tufts University Boston, MA, USA.
Johanna T
JT
Dwyer
Victor L
VL
Fulgoni
Roger A
RA
Clemens
David B
DB
Schmidt
Marjorie R
MR
Freedman
D000328:Adult; D002648:Child; D005492:Folic Acid / Q000008:administration & dosage; D005502:Food; D005511:Food Handling; D005524:Food Technology; D005527:Food, Fortified; D007722:Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; D006801:Humans; D019266:Iron, Dietary / Q000008:administration & dosage; D018673:Nutrition Policy; D009751:Nutritional Requirements; D011634:Public Health; D013831:Thiamine / Q000008:administration & dosage; D014481:United States; D014801:Vitamin A / Q000008:administration & dosage
D019266:Iron, Dietary; D014801:Vitamin A; D005492:Folic Acid; D013831:Thiamine