Packaged bread endures as a staple of the American diet.
January 28/Rockville, Md./Press Release -- Packaged bread endures as a staple of the American diet. Notwithstanding the culinary conflagrations of low-carb and gluten-free, virtually all U.S. consumers eat some form of bread. and the market enjoys a high household penetration. Retail sales of packaged breads totaled $13 billion in 2012, according to "Packaged Breads: U.S. Market Trends," a report by market research publisher Packaged Facts. Product trends in packaged breads generally revolve around two themes: health and nutrition, and taste and experience. The themes often overlap as many new products deliver different tastes and experiences that are also healthier and more nutritious.
U.S. consumers remain attentive to health and wellness across virtually all product categories, and bread manufacturers have responded for years with products that are more nutritious. Breads are being fortified with ever healthier and trendier ingredients that both deliver benefits many consumers have to come expect, and help differentiate one brand from another. Products have been formulated to reduce sodium, sugar and fat, be free of high fructose corn syrup and trans fats, and be more natural, organic, and fresh, and to be gluten-free. Whole wheat now outsells white bread at retail stores, factoring out foodservice’s hamburger buns and pizza crusts. And whole grain products are filling shelves, thanks in large part to the fast-growing older population that has helped propel the trend toward healthier breads and higher fiber. Since over half of Americans say they are watching their diets and a large percentage look for more fiber in what they eat, healthier breads will help drive sales in the years to come.