OMAHA, Neb. — ConAgra Foods Inc. applauded the Food and Drug Administration’s approval of the company’s petition for a qualified health claim that links whole grain consumption to a lower risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
ConAgra said Tuesday that the FDA approval enables food manufacturers to communicate that whole grains and whole grain-containing foods that meet certain nutrient requirements outlined by the agency may reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes.
"We were the originator of this petition, and we’re thrilled the FDA is confirming that whole grains have a positive effect on people’s health and well-being and can help reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes," stated Al Bolles, executive vice president of research, quality and innovation at ConAgra Foods.
Mark Andon, vice president of nutrition at ConAgra, added, "For the 79 million Americans who are at risk for developing type 2 diabetes, this claim will provide easy, at-a-glance guidance for foods which can help reduce their risk."
At least three ounces of whole grains per day is recommended by the most recent U.S. Dietary Guidelines, but less than 5% of Americans actually meet this goal, according to ConAgra.
"To put this into context, one ounce of whole grains is equal to one slice of whole wheat bread, a half-cup serving of cooked whole grain pasta, or three cups of popcorn like [ConAgra’s] Orville Redenbacher’s SmartPop," Andon noted.
ConAgra Foods also makes Ultragrain, which the company said is the first 100% whole wheat flour that offers whole grain nutrition with the taste, texture and appearance of traditional white flour. Because it’s milled to retain the entire whole grain, all-natural Ultragrain offers more fiber, vitamin B and vitamin E than refined white flour. Ultragrain has been used for several years to make many grain-based foods and is now available in food stores nationwide.
"With obesity and type 2 diabetes on the rise," Andon stated, "this claim helps reinforce the public health messages that consumers are receiving from trusted sources about the importance of including more whole grains for a healthful lifestyle."
