Impact of Diet Modification on Food Product Development

Excerpt

The diet of the American public is in a constant state of flux. Dietary alterations are based on the everchanging needs and perceptions of the consumer. Concern about the relation of diet to health is only one element of perceived needs. The needs of the consumer influence the process of food product development. Evidence of that impact is apparent in the large number of new food products designed to meet special dietary needs avilable in the market place.

Interpreting the perceived needs of the consumer is often difficult. For most consumers, quality and safety are the most important concerns. The