Cutting Calories in the Grocery Aisle
Five years ago, 16 food and beverage companies took a pledge to address the obesity problem in our nation and formed the Healthy Weight Commitment Foundation (HWCF). In that time, HWCF member companies sold 6.4 trillion fewer calories in the U.S. in 2012 than they did in 2007, as confirmed in the findings of an independent evaluation by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. The change in overall caloric footprint of the 16 Healthy Weight Commitment Foundation member companies is impressive. Together, they far exceeded their original 1.5 trillion calorie goal, several years ahead of their target date. At a reduction of approximately 78 calories per person, per day, non-HWCF national food brands and private labels in comparison each only cut 11 calories per day over the same period. Of the 6.4 trillion calories HWCF removed, member companies saw large reductions in calories from across all food groups:
- Sweets and snacks (-21 calories)
- Grain products (-17 calories)
- Fats, oils, sauces, condiments (-15 calories)
- Beverages (-14 calories)
These calorie reductions include products across the spectrum of foods in our grocery aisles, resulting in reduction of calories in our grocery baskets each week. Such victories are applauded and Together Counts continues to do its part to help families reduce calories at home. From tips on energy balance to making breakfast meals better, we hope you’ll find the resources you need right here at Together Counts!