Food and Beverage Companies Have Introduced More than 20,000 Healthier Product Choices Since 2002

(Washington, D.C.) The Grocery Manufacturers Association (GMA) today released the results of its 2010 Health & Wellness Survey that showed that from 2002 to 2009, food and beverage companies have developed and introduced to the marketplace over 20,000 healthier product choices. These new choices have doubled in just the last three years. "This data is a reflection of what consumers already know," said GMA president and CEO, Pamela G. Bailey. "Food and beverage companies are responding to consumer needs by providing thousands of healthier product choices that make it easier for shoppers to build a healthy diet for them and their families."

The 2010 GMA Health & Wellness Survey data was collected and analyzed by Georgetown Economic Services. Fifty-seven companies, representing approximately half of U.S. food and beverage sales, have shared data for the survey since 2002.

Through the Survey, food and beverage companies revealed that they collectively have:

Additional survey highlights:
• 93% of participant companies are developing, introducing and marketing healthier products
• 91% of participant companies actively promote healthy lifestyles in the marketplace
• 52% of participant companies have created child-specific product sizes
• 49% of participant companies have introduced single-serve packaging (e.g. 100-calorie packs)
• Since 2002 food and beverage companies have spent more than $130 million in nutrition and health-related activities and grants to communities.
• 98% of participant companies have workplace wellness programs for their employees

"GMA and its member companies fully support First Lady Michelle Obama's goal of solving childhood obesity within a generation, and these results show that our industry is committed to helping Americans lead healthier lives. We are providing consumers with the products, tools and information they need to construct a healthy diet and lead a more active lifestyle," concluded Ms. Bailey.