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A new study reveals that shifting US packaged food sales toward healthier options could prevent around 150,000 diet-related deaths annually. Researchers analyzed nearly 10,000 products from 24 major manufacturers — covering 37% of the US market — and found the biggest gains in baked goods, snacks, and sugary drinks. The healthier products already exist; it's a matter of prioritization.
A new study from the Netherlands-based Access to Nutrition Initiative and NGO ShareAction found that US packaged food companies have the power to dramatically reduce diet-related deaths — without inventing anything new. By simply shifting sales toward healthier products already in their portfolios, these companies could prevent approximately 150,000 deaths linked to cardiovascular disease, stroke, and other diet-related conditions every single year.
Researchers analyzed nearly 10,000 packaged food and beverage products sold by 24 major manufacturers, which together account for roughly 37% of the US packaged food and beverage market. The study identified baked goods, sauces and condiments, confectionery, carbonated drinks, and savory snacks as the categories with the greatest room for improvement.
By the Numbers:
Why it matters: This study puts the spotlight squarely on the food industry's role in public health. Since healthier alternatives already exist on shelves, the barrier isn't innovation — it's corporate prioritization. Shifting even a portion of sales toward those options could yield massive health and economic benefits at a population level.
