Self-Perceptions of Healthy Eating are Unrealistic

According to the 2013 International Food Information Council (IFIC) Foundation’s 2013 Food & Health Survey, there are wide gaps between perception and the reality of what we eat. Despite most consumers rating their diets as adequate, the survey, which sampled more than 1,005 individuals between the ages of 18 and 80, showed a chasm between actual intake and nutritional recommendations based on government recommendations.

For example, 68 percent of people perceived they consumed enough vitamin D, compared to 32 percent who actually met their needs. The discrepancy in perception vs. intake for fiber (67 percent vs. 5 percent) and potassium (61 percent vs. 3 percent) was more stark. However, vitamin B intake is actually perceived to be lower than actual intake (60 percent vs. 90 percent)—a testament to fortified foods. The survey also pointed out that 9 in 10 Americans are increasingly interested in foods that offer health benefits beyond basic nutrition and are taking proactive action. For instance, 88 percent reported eating more fruits and vegetables over the past year. Even so, reported perceived barriers, such as expense (54 percent), time (49 per-cent), and taste (46 percent) still limit the consumption of more healthful foods.

—Sharon Palmer, RD, Editor, EN

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