狂吸父母退休金的“慢升糖”食品，是智商税么？

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the rising trend of low glycemic index (GI) foods in the market, particularly targeting older consumers, and raises concerns about the authenticity and marketing strategies behind these products [1][5][12]. Group 1: Market Trends - Low GI food labels have become ubiquitous in supermarkets, appearing on various products from noodles to snacks, indicating a significant shift in consumer awareness and demand for healthier options [6][10]. - The concept of low GI foods is being promoted as part of a national health initiative, with the government encouraging the consumption of low sugar or no sugar products to combat diabetes [12][14]. Group 2: Consumer Behavior - Older consumers, particularly retirees, are increasingly investing in low GI foods, despite the higher prices associated with these products, reflecting a shift in their spending priorities towards health [26]. - There is a growing "health anxiety" among consumers, leading them to seek out products that claim to have health benefits, such as low GI foods, which may not always be substantiated [10][30]. Group 3: Certification and Authenticity - The process for obtaining low GI certification involves rigorous testing to ensure that the blood sugar response to the product is significantly lower than that of glucose, which adds credibility to the label [13][16]. - Different products may carry varying low GI certifications due to the involvement of multiple third-party laboratories, leading to inconsistencies in labeling and consumer confusion [16][17]. Group 4: Pricing Dynamics - The presence of low GI labels can lead to a price increase of up to 40% for similar products, raising questions about the value proposition for consumers [12][11]. - Despite the higher costs, consumers are willing to pay more for products that align with their health goals, indicating a potential market opportunity for companies offering certified low GI foods [26].