In the age group 40-59 years, 85% of respondents reported taking supplements on a daily basis, with the majority taking 2-3 types, according to a national survey. Researchers also asked people what they thought about the role and impact of dietary supplements. A third of respondents thought they played an important role in curing illnesses, and few were aware that they were also classified as food. This time, the National Food Chain Safety Authority (Nébih) put dietary supplements under the microscope.
Changing eating habits
Eating habits are constantly changing and new products are being introduced to the market. Typically in this area, too, the trends, that guide our habits. But a survey carried out by the National Food Chain Safety Office (Nébih) has revealed where the gaps are. Despite the fact that dietary supplements have become part of our shopping habits, few people really know how to use them. The survey was carried out with the participation of around 500 people and focused on the population's habits and knowledge of buying and consuming food supplements. The question of consumers' experiences with different products is also an important issue. product categoriesabout.
Who takes a food supplement
The survey revealed that consumers are typically female (70%), with the 40-59 age group proving to be the most active, with 85% of respondents saying they take supplements on a daily basis, the majority taking 2-3 types. Of those who already have children, almost 73% of respondents also give their children this type of product. It is also important to note that the average amount spent on food supplements is between 5 and 15 thousand HUF. Vitamins, multivitamins and minerals are the most consumed (95%), followed (51%) by other immune-boosting and health-protecting products (e.g. Omega 3,6).
What is important to us?
Of the product attributes we listed, the most important was that the product 100% contained natural active ingredients and had some form of certification. In addition, respondents prefer products with a faster absorption time and it is important to them that they are allergen-free, sugar-free and GMO-free. It is also important that the product is certified as „organic” and that it contains Hungarian ingredients in 100%. Vegan, gluten-free and lactose-free properties were only important to a small proportion of respondents.
Healthy eating is also an option
The point of using dietary or nutritional supplements is to provide nutrients to our bodies that we may not be consuming in adequate amounts. The question arises: why not?
The survey showed that although the majority of consumers are aware of the potential dangers of taking dietary supplements, they are not aware of their scope of use or their real physiological effects. This is why Nébih experts are currently working on a guide focusing on the most critical issues of concern to consumers.
In addition to all this, mindful eating is also a solution. From raw materials, that we use to make food are all important for our body. They contain the vitamins, trace elements and minerals we need. Of course, timeliness is very important in this respect, so seasonal ingredients Purchase. Fresh seasonal vegetables and fruits are all solutions for the proper nutrition of our body. According to the feedback, the most important of the most „talked about” features of dietary supplements is that the product 100% contains natural active ingredients and has some kind of certification. However, if we make sensible and conscious choices about the foods we eat, we do not necessarily need supplements.
Food supplements are not a substitute for a balanced, healthy diet. A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains and protein can provide the nutrients needed. If, for some reason, it is not possible to consume healthy ingredients, supplements are obviously necessary, but the aim should be to ensure that the nutrients are of a high quality, whether they are vegetables, fruit or meat.#
by Tamás Budafoki / Airchef
Photo by Pixabay
