health & nutrition
Current consumption of whole grain
A number of surveys show that the consumption of whole grain increases with the age of the consumer and that men consume more whole grain than women, maybe because of a greater overall food intake.
Income and the level of education are positively associated with whole grain consumption in the USA and the UK. On the contrary, in Finland the highest intakes of rye bread were found in lower socio-economic groups.
In the USA and UK whole grain consumers were less likely to smoke, tended to be regular exercisers and consumed more fruits and vegetables. These results indicate an association of whole grain consumption with other positive lifestyle traits.
Whole grain consumption in the UK
Most alarming is the news that approximately one-third of British adults and 27% of British children fail to consume any whole grain foods at all.
In other words 95% of British adults and 94% of the children do not eat the recommended daily amount of 3 servings.
Whole grain consumption in the USA
It is estimated that the average whole grain intake in the USA is less than one serving per day. Americans consume only an average of 14 to 15 g fibre per day instead of the recommended 25 to 30 grams.
Whole grain consumption of the Scandinavians
Scandinavians tend to eat more whole grain compared to the USA and UK.
The consumption of whole grain foods in Norway was reported to be four times that reported for the USA.
In Finland mainly rye bread is eaten.
Reasons why whole grain consumption may be low
Sadly, few people are aware of the health benefits of whole grain foods.
- Consumers have difficulties in identifying whole grain foods.
- Consumers express limited knowledge about the preparation and cooking of whole grain foods.
- Whole grain breads are often described as dry and bitter.
- Whole grain foods in general are sometimes said to be bland and dry in taste.
Unfortunately whole grain varieties of bread, pasta and rice tend to be more expensive. This deters low-income and vulnerable groups from buying whole grain products.
Increasing variety and availability of acceptable whole grain foods will certainly lead to greater consumption levels. Of course we know how wonderful and delicious they really are.
follow us
Wholemeal pizza with olives, cherry tomatoes and…
Cut the risk of diabetes by up to a third
