.S. retail sales of weight loss products increased by a total of almost 90% and posted a compound annual growth rate of 17% during the period of 1999 to 2003, according to The U.S. Market for Weight Loss Eating and Product Trends, a new report by market research publisher Packaged Facts. This performance reflects strong gains across four core categories, including frozen dinners and entrees, food bars, meal replacement liquids and powders, and diet candy, the study reports.

New York, NY January 21 2004–-U.S. retail sales of weight loss products increased by a total of almost 90% and posted a compound annual growth rate of 17% during the period of 1999 to 2003, according to The U.S. Market for Weight Loss Eating and Product Trends, a new report by market research publisher Packaged Facts. This performance reflects strong gains across four core categories, including frozen dinners and entrees, food bars, meal replacement liquids and powders, and diet candy, the study reports.

Low-carb dieting is presented as being a leading cause of monumental gains in the weight loss segment of the food industry. Top beneficiaries include product categories deemed "Atkins-friendly," which are experiencing a welcomed boost in sales after years in the shadow of low-fat food items, according to Packaged Facts.

"Every day, another food manufacturer or restaurant chain is announcing a low-carb version of its product or menu," said Don Montuori, Acquisitions Editor for Packaged Facts. "It’s a risky proposition – especially since Americans love their starch and sugar – but in fact this ‘Atikins-ization’ of the national diet follows an establish body of weight loss advice that emphasizes protein over carbohydrates."

The U.S. Market for Weight Loss Eating and Products Trends specifically covers trends in U.S. eating and food products, food consumption, obesity and weight loss, popular diets, food ingredients and engineering, and foodservice. Consumer attitudes about health, nutrition, and dieting are also featured. This new report is priced at $3000 and is available for purchase at www.MarketResearch.com or directly from the publisher at www.PackagedFacts.com. Enter product ID LA888595 into the search field at either site for more information.