In addition, sales of “light, lean, low and less-of” brands increased 6.7 percent to $5.9 billion during 2002, and the sales of popular weight management beverages grew from $6.7 billion in 2001 to $7 billion in 2002.

“Products geared toward healthful eating including lower-fat, no-fat and reduced sodium meals, snacks and drinks experienced significant growth over the past few years,” said Mike Diegel, director, communications for the Grocery Manufacturers of America. “This is clearly a sign that consumers are more aware of the importance of nutrition and a balanced diet. The food industry will continue to address this demand by offering more of these alternatives.”

The increased public attention to health and nutrition is evident in the sales of products containing soy, which has grown an impressive 60.7 percent over the past five years. In addition, sales of nutritional/energy/health bars have experienced a similar boost, rising 38 percent over the same period. The GMA/IRI Times and Trends Executive Summary offers senior-level executives concise insights each month on trends in the economy, private label, new product development, channel competition, consumer shopping patterns and more. The free summary is published monthly by GMA and Information Resources, Inc. It is delivered via e-mail each month and is accessible via the GMA Web site at

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Based in Washington, D.C., the Grocery Manufacturers Association is the voice of more than 300 leading food, beverage and consumer product companies that sustain and enhance the quality of life for hundreds of millions of people in the United States and around the globe.

Founded in 1908, GMA is an active, vocal advocate for its member companies and a trusted source of information about the industry and the products consumers rely on and enjoy every day. The association and its member companies are committed to meeting the needs of consumers through product innovation, responsible business practices and effective public policy solutions developed through a genuine partnership with policymakers and other stakeholders.

In keeping with its founding principles, GMA helps its members produce safe products through a strong and ongoing commitment to scientific research, testing and evaluation and to providing consumers with the products, tools and information they need to achieve a healthy diet and an active lifestyle. The food, beverage and consumer packaged goods industry in the United States generates sales of $2.1 trillion annually, employs 14 million workers and contributes $1 trillion in added value to the economy every year.

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