2012’s Top Nutrition Trends

Public-relations agency Pollock Communications has named the top five 2012 nutrition trends, and unprocessed organic foods are in the highest demand. More than 200 registered dietitians were surveyed to identify the trends, and a whopping 94 percent predicted an increased movement in eating more fruits and vegetables, especially seasonal and local plant-based foods. Another 72 percent forecasted that consumers will be demanding more local, fresh, organic, sustainable foods in the next year, and almost all of the respondents (96 percent) foresee an emphasis on consuming more antioxidants and phytonutrients, with 59 percent agreeing that consumers need to increase their vitamin and mineral intake. Finally, the dietitians predict that there will be a greater concern over reducing trans fats, added sugars, saturated fat, and sodium, and that USDA’s MyPlate will have a strong influence on diet recommendations in 2012.