Whole grains are increasingly recognised as a cornerstone of healthy diets, yet intake across several European countries remains below recommended levels(1, 2). Addressing this gap requires action across the food system, with the food industry playing a key role in shaping the food environment and influencing everyday choices. As part of PepsiCo’s commitment to advancing nutrition, our Life Sciences team in Europe is working to bring renewed focus to whole grains through science, collaboration, and communication.
Building on Science
A strong scientific foundation is essential to driving meaningful change in whole grain consumption. At PepsiCo, we continuously invest in research, reviews and support conferences to facilitate the communication of the latest science on whole grains, enabling it to be shared and visible to all and discussed by key experts; this helps ensure our vision is grounded in the latest evidence.
For example, the recent paper by PepsiCo employees Kutepova et. al. (2024) Whole grain intake remains unchanged in the UK, 2008/2012-2016/2019, highlights that despite some overall dietary improvements in the UK, whole grain intake has remained largely unchanged over this period, pointing to a persistent gap between dietary recommendations and actual consumption(2). Similarly, the paper by Boyle et al. (2025), The need and strategies for increasing wholegrain intake: a narrative review focused on the UK and Ireland, highlights that whole grain intake remains below levels needed for health benefits, despite strong evidence and inclusion in dietary guidelines. It points to opportunities for progress through clearer whole grain definitions and labelling, strengthened dietary guidance, and collaborative, population-based strategies drawing on successful models such as the Danish Whole Grain Campaign(3). This paper expands on talks given by C. J. Seal and L. Dye at a Symposium held during the Nutrition Society Congress in July 2024. The symposium was supported by a financial grant from Quaker, a brand within the PepsiCo portfolio.
Professional engagement and collaboration
Progress also depends on collaboration beyond individual companies. To support healthcare professionals, we are continuously developing brand-agnostic resources, including infographics on whole grain intakes, hosted on dedicated platforms [PepsiCo HealthandNutrition]. We also sponsor conferences and organise symposiums at major congresses such as EFAD (the European Federation of the Associations of Dietitians) and The Nutrition Society (UK) to share the latest science and foster dialogue.
Internal Communication
Promoting and encouraging increased intake of whole grains starts internally. This is why, in addition to publishing an internal white paper on global definitions, regulations and recommendations, we are rolling out harmonised internal guidance across our regional teams, aligned with external recommendations.
By combining robust research, clear engagement with health professionals, and internal guidance and communication, the food industry has a meaningful opportunity to help close the whole grain intake gap. Through PepsiCo’s work, we aim to make whole grains an accessible and appealing choice for consumers across Europe.
References:
- European Commission knowledge for policy - Whole grain intake across European countries | Knowledge for policy
- Kutepova I, Rehm CD, and Smith SJ (2025) Whole grain intake remains unchanged in the UK, 2008/2012–2016/2019. British Journal of Nutrition 134: 213–219. doi: 10.1017/S0007114525104091
- Boyle NB, Dye L, Seal CJ. The need and strategies for increasing whole-grain intake: a narrative review focused on the UK and Ireland. British Journal of Nutrition. Published online 2025:1-17. doi:10.1017/S0007114525105059