Barley News & Updates

ARLINGTON, Texas Whole grains are perceived by U.S. consumers as the healthiest foods, according to a study conducted by the market research firm Decision Analyst. Participants were presented with an answer list containing 70 foods and beverages commonly thought of as healthful, as well as some that might not be perceived as such. They were asked, Which of the following foods and beverages provide additional health benefits beyond basic nutritional needs? Whole grains (58.5%) were followed by broccoli (57.6%), bananas (56.9%), oatmeal (56.1%), green tea (55.1%), garlic (54.6%), spinach (54.6%) and carrots (52.4%). The least healthful items were spirits, defined as bourbon, vodka, rum and scotch. Only 3.4% of respondents identified spirits as healthy. Beer was thought to be healthy by 5.3% of respondents.