Most Consumers Have Sought Healthier Diets
While nearly everyone wants to eat better, many shoppers struggle to identify nutritious food options.
Updated on Sept. 30, 2026 in Healthy Food
Live Poll
Do you find it difficult to eat healthily due to food availability or affordability?
A new report from Ahold Delhaize, which serves 77 million customers weekly, found that 92% of consumers intend to eat more healthily. However, only 14% currently view their diets as very healthy, and just 23% report satisfaction with their physical health.
Why it matters
Nutrition confusion and affordability remain significant barriers for shoppers trying to improve their dietary choices. The data highlights a disconnect between consumer intent and the ability to navigate store shelves for nutritious products.
This survey of 8,000 consumers across 48 food retailers found that only 13% feel confident identifying healthy food. The findings contrast sharply with the 92% of participants who express a desire to eat more healthily.
The players
Ahold Delhaize
An international food retailer serving 77 million customers per week that tracks dietary habits and healthy food access.
The details
Retailers are attempting to bridge the nutrition gap by using visual cues and structured nutrition programmes to guide shoppers toward healthier options. Furthermore, corporations are increasingly disclosing healthy sales data and setting mandatory targets to improve the health profile of their offerings, with 18 companies reporting such measures in 2026 compared to just seven in 2024.
Timeline
Seven companies disclosed healthy sales data or set targets in 2024.
Eighteen companies disclosed healthy sales data or set targets in 2026.
Ahold Delhaize released the report findings on September 30, 2026.
Ahold Delhaize will release the full report on October 12, 2026.
Health Landscape
This report highlights a shifting trend toward greater corporate transparency in the food sector. The data reflects an evolution in how large retailers prioritize nutrition metrics in response to public health demands.
If you find it challenging to identify nutritious items, consider using store-provided nutrition guides or visual labeling systems to simplify your shopping. It is worth discussing your personal dietary goals and any confusion regarding food labels with your doctor or a registered dietitian.
The takeaway
While the vast majority of consumers want to prioritize their health, systemic barriers like confusing labeling often hinder progress. Tracking your dietary patterns and consulting a physician about specific nutrition labels can help you better align your grocery habits with your wellness goals.
What happens next
Ahold Delhaize will release the full report on October 12, 2026.
Further reading
Learn more about navigating grocery aisles by visiting our Healthy Food section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Foodnavigator.
Live Poll
Do you find it difficult to eat healthily due to food availability or affordability?
