After years of articles, documentary films and pestering from health-conscious friends, it appears people are now more aware of their health and the kinds of food they are eating.

New research released by Tate & Lyle yesterday found 64 percent of respondents said they were more interested in eating healthily when compared to how they felt two years ago.

The study found the interest in maintaining optimal health is not just an individual endeavor. A total of 72 percent of parents said they are paying more attention to the ingredients used in products for their children, a skill that has most likely come in handy thanks to the ongoing peanut butter-salmonella scare.

Also, more consumers expressed a heightened awareness of the importance of fiber and how it can be beneficial for one’s digestive health and weight management.

Some consumers are turning to probiotics to assist in their digestive health. The "good" bacteria, as it is often described, can be found in most yogurts sold in grocery stores and was named one of the major health trends to look out for in 2009.