New Study Reveals Nutritional Priorities and Gaps Amidst Evolving Lifestyles
Filipino families today have an ever-growing range of food and beverage options in the marketplace for eating out, at home or on-the-go. Yet, a recent study commissioned by the U.S. Dairy Export Council (USDEC) reveals a disconnect between dietary needs and actual consumption habits, shedding light on the evolving nutritional challenges facing consumers today. The findings were shared with local food and beverage manufacturers at USDEC’s U.S. Dairy Ingredients Seminar: “Market Trends and Formulation Insights for Nourishing Innovation” held at the Grand Hyatt Manila on November 7, 2024, where industry experts gathered to discuss opportunities for enhancing Filipino family nutrition.
Balancing Convenience with Nutrition in Filipino Households
At the seminar, Anoo Pothen, Director of Consumer Insights for USDEC Southeast Asia, shared key learnings from the survey, providing insights into what parents want and need. With busier and time-constrained lifestyles often complicating healthy eating, providing balanced meals does not come easy for Filipino families.
According to the study which focused on middle to upper-income households, approximately 40% of surveyed Filipino parents find it difficult or only somewhat easy to provide balanced meals for their children. Additionally, the influence of social media-driven food trends further complicates efforts to maintain a balanced diet suitable for diverse ages within a family. Although most Filipino parents believe the main meals they provide their child are excellent or very good nutritional value, this drops when it comes to snacks. 59% of parents say finding healthy snacks that children like is among the top challenges.
“Our research revealed that 62% of Filipino parents surveyed view serving balanced meals among the most important measures to ensure their child is healthy, and that the top 3 health aspects desired for their child are having a strong immune system, age-appropriate weight and a sharp brain/memory,” said Pothen. “However, despite their recognition of the importance of balanced meals, many parents still struggle with providing their children nutritious snacks.”
Dairy’s Role in Addressing Nutritional Gaps
84% of parents surveyed in the study indicated that dairy and dairy ingredients can play a key role in enhancing the nutritional value of packaged food and beverages.
Beyond its well-known calcium benefits, dairy is a nutritionally high-quality source of protein, offering all nine essential amino acids crucial for muscle repair and growth. Accessible and nutritious dairy options, like lower-sugar beverages and yogurt and protein-fortified snacks can provide a convenient way to support family health.
Dr. Cecilia Acuin, MD, PhD, from the University of the Philippines, underscored dairy’s vital role in Filipino diets at the seminar, saying, “Dairy is a cornerstone of a healthy diet, offering nutrients that are difficult to replace with other foods. Its complete protein, rich in essential amino acids, is one of the most efficient ways to support the nutritional needs of Filipino families, especially children. Regular inclusion of dairy can improve overall health and nutrition, benefiting individuals across ages.”
The study also revealed significant nutritional gaps in Filipino diets, particularly in protein intake, which dairy and dairy foods like yogurt can help fill. Thanks to its versatility, convenience, and nutritional profile, yogurt has become a popular and convenient option for busy families, offering a simple way to provide essential nutrients to both children and adults.
“Yogurt offers a tasty, versatile, and nutritious option for families, with a variety of formats and flavors that cater across ages and dietary needs, said Pothen. “Its convenience—available in spoonable cups or as a beverage—makes it perfect for busy families. Yogurt can also be used in cooking, enhancing smoothies, dips, soups, sauces, and baked goods.”
U.S. Dairy’s Ongoing Commitment to Filipino Nutrition
The Philippines is the largest export market for U.S. dairy in Southeast Asia, with nearly half of its dairy imports coming from the United States. In 2023, U.S. dairy exports to Southeast Asia reached 460,300 metric tons, valued at $1.1 billion, with the Philippines playing a key role in this trade being #1 export market for U.S. dairy in Southeast Asia and the #2 market globally for U.S. skim milk powder exports (after Mexico). To further support local dietary needs, USDEC has invested in the U.S. Center for Dairy Excellence (U.S. CDE) in Singapore, collaborating with Southeast Asia-based manufacturers to innovate with high-quality U.S. dairy ingredients to create healthful food and beverage products tailored to local tastes.
The U.S. dairy industry’s strong and committed presence in the Philippines and Southeast Asia is backed by a steady, year-round supply of high-quality dairy ingredients. This ensures that Filipino food and beverage manufacturers, and the families they serve, have consistent access to nutritional ingredients supporting healthy, active lives and long-term well-being.
Further information on nutrition and innovation with U.S. dairy ingredients can be found at USdairyexcellence.org and @ThinkUSAdairy on Instagram.
