It’s no secret that many consumers struggle to identify and consume thoughtful portions. While they may recognize the importance of eating healthfully, they’re faced with the difficult task of navigating an environment that promotes food quantity over food quality. In fact, a 2014 report from the McKinsey Global Institute stated that the single highest-impact intervention area for combatting obesity is reducing the size of portions in packaged foods and at fast food restaurants. That’s why Nestlé aims to make thoughtful portions the easy choice for consumers. With Nestlé brands found in 97% of U.S. households, we’re in a unique position to support healthy eating habits (including proper portions!) and help address the current obesity epidemic.
As nutrition educators, we know you seek practical healthy eating strategies to improve the health of your clients. As part of our initiative, we offer on-pack guidance through our “Thoughtful Portion™” icon, now found on many of our foods and beverages. This is just one of many practical solutions, and we are encouraged by recent consumer research that showed our on-pack communication on suggested portions builds on current label reading habits.
To learn more, please join us at SNEB’s Annual Conference for a Nestlé-sponsored luncheon and educational session on Saturday, July 22nd titled, Portion Guidance: Successes, Challenges and Real-Life Strategies for Nutrition Educators. During the session, you’ll hear the latest research and evidence-based strategies to promote proper portions from portion guidance expert Lisa Young, PhD, RD. In her book, The Portion Teller Plan, Dr. Young shares how awareness of portion size allows you to “smart-size” and change your relationship with food. Together, we’ll enjoy a thoughtfully portioned lunch and offer real-life solutions for you to use in your day-to-day education efforts.
If you’ll miss us at the conference, you can learn more about Nestlé USA’s Portion Guidance efforts and resources at nestleusa.com/nutrition/portion-guidance.
Carol Savage, MS, RDN is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist with Nestlé’s Nutrition, Health and Wellness, Center of Excellence