Few consumers can accurately calculate whole grain content of common foods

Whole grain labeling on breads and other items can be confusing for consumers, according to a new study. Researchers asked more than 1,000 U.S. adults to assess the amount of whole grain — grain that still contains all of its essential parts and nutrients — in common grocery store items with ambiguous descriptors like “multigrain” and “12 grain.” Despite having access to the nutrition facts, around half overestimated the whole grain content of processed products. In a separate experiment, consumers incorrectly thought processed products with whole grain labels were healthier than products without such labeling — even though their ingredients list included more whole grain content. Whole grains in a daily diet can help reduce risk of heart disease and type 2 diabetes, and current labeling methods may prevent people from getting these essential nutrients, the authors suggest.