Nutrition labels have a complicated legacy – a historian explains the science and politics of translating food into information

The nutrition label, that black and white information box that appears on almost every packaged foods in the US since 1994has recently become an icon for consumer transparency. From Apple’s “Privacy Nutrition Labels,” which reveal how smartphone apps handle user data, to a “Garment Facts” label that standardizes ethical disclosures on clothing, policy advocates across … Read more

The Health Benefits of Avocados

We don’t just like avocados in the UK, we love them. Figures show that in the year to April 2024, we bought 17.4% more avocados than the previous 12-month period – the biggest increase of any fruit and veg. From guacamole to salads to fancy starters, they’re the superfood loved by health-food influencers and even … Read more

A Brief History of Nutrition Facts

Rocketclips, Inc. // Shutterstock The Food and Drug Administration is likely to propose adding nutrition facts to the front of packaged foods for the first time. The change, expected to be announced in the coming months, will be the latest in the consumer-driven evolution of nutrition labeling. It comes as heart disease, a diet-related disease, … Read more

Evidence Center presents new manuscripts

The Texas A&M Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Evidence Center presented its first set of studies, funded by the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine, NASEM, at NUTRITION 2024, the annual flagship meeting of the American Society for Nutrition. The conference draws top nutrition scientists for research sessions, presentations, and lectures. Maureen Spill, Ph.D., associate … Read more

Diets for the elderly

Many age groups have unique nutritional needs. For example, infants and children need the right foods to effectively promote healthy development. Seniors (people over 65) are another age group with specific needs. To stay healthy during this crucial time in their lives, they need to make sure they get the right nutrition. For example, according … Read more

Examining the health benefits of Latin American, Asian and African heritage diets

It could also reveal areas ripe for innovation for manufacturers looking to meet increasing consumer demand for global flavors, culturally relevant and healthier, yet convenient foods and beverages. “The Mediterranean diet is a well-studied cultural model of healthy eating, but research on healthy models from other cultures and cuisines has been limited” — hampering the … Read more

Can a diet that’s good for the planet reduce the risk of dying from disease?

A diet that promotes plant-based proteins to help the environment now has a more human argument: It can lower the risk of death from several serious diseases. “It wasn’t just one cause of death. It was across the board,” said Walter Willett, professor of epidemiology and nutrition at the Harvard TH Chan School of Public … Read more

The 14 Best Fast Food Desserts, According to Dietitians

Fancy something sweet on the go? A drive-thru run can satisfy your sugar cravings quickly and easily. Although fast food restaurants are best known for their main dishes such as burgers, tacos and pizza, most chains offer at least a few desserts. Of course, many fast food dessert offerings mimic their entrees in terms of … Read more

Personalized nutrition and individual health needs

No two people have exactly the same health needs. This is why the personalized nutrition industry was developed, with the aim of creating tailor-made diets that, in a number of ways, fit the individual like a glove. However, is it really possible to personalize a diet? How can it be done? Research into individual differences​ … Read more

The 10 Healthiest Whole Grains You Can Eat

Whole grains are a fundamental part of a healthy diet. Not only are they a good source of essential nutrients such as B vitamins, selenium, magnesium, protein and fiber, but they also provide hundreds of bioactive compounds linked to numerous health benefits. Including a variety of whole grains in your meals and snacks can improve … Read more