2022 Food and Health Survey

Online survey of 1,005 Americans ages 18 to 80. Fielding took place between March 23 and April 4, 2022

Objective is to understand perceptions, beliefs, and behaviors surrounding food and food-purchasing decisions. The survey continues to examine issues related to personal health, nutrition, eating patterns, food production, and food safety. Among many highlights, the 2022 survey findings include:

• A sharp uptick in prioritization of environmental sustainability
• Approaches to managing prominent issues like chronic stress and the rising cost of food
• An increase in the adoption of new diets and eating patterns
• Insights about the influence of allergen labeling on food purchases

Download full report.

Consumer Snapshot

• 52% report following a diet or eating pattern in the past year, up from 39% in 2021. The most commonly selected options were “clean eating” and “mindful eating
• 57% are concerned about food waste Gen Z, Millennials and Gen X are more likely to be concerned than Boomers
• 52% believe their food and beverage purchases have an impact on the environment. Millennials, parents of young children, people with a college degree and those with higher incomes were more likely say so
• 25% shop for groceries online at least once a week, up from 20% in 2021. Younger generations, those earning >$75K/year and men are more likely to be frequent online shoppers
• 39% regularly buy foods and beverages labeled as “natural.” The top two reasons for buying “natural” products are believing that natural foods are generally healthier and wanting to avoid artificial ingredients
•  56% reported feeling stressed in the past 6 months. Those who said they were very stressed are more likely to snack three or more times a day than people who are only somewhat stressed

Gen Z Snapshot

• 35% grocery shop online at least once a week and are more likely to do so compared to Gen X and Boomers
• They are more likely to purchase products labeled as, “Small carbon footprint/carbon neutral” and “Plant-based”, compared to Boomers
• 73% agree that they have a greater concern about the environmental impact of their food choices than other generations
• Top health benefits sought from food/beverages/nutrients:
  • Energy/less fatigue
  • Improved sleep
  • Emotional/mental health
  • Digestive health/gut health
• 73% report feeling stressed over the past 6 months They are more likely to seek out options like therapy, mindfulness or meditation for stress reduction, compared to Gen X or Boomers