Did you know? When it comes to food, French people have a few obsessions. Most often, they set their sights on three flagship – and inexpensive – products, the composition of which is as follows.
Cristaline water pack
At the top of this ranking drawn up by market research leader NielsenIQ, revealed by mass distribution specialist Olivier Dauvers, we find Cristaline in pole position in a 6×1 L pack. A basic necessity product, which is essential for your health.
“Water allows adequate hydration and contributes to the proper functioning of physiological systems (distribution of nutrients, elimination of waste, thermoregulation). Buying it is therefore a good thing”, recognizes Julie Boët, dietitian-nutritionist.
However, even if water is naturally good for your body, paying attention to certain details is necessary: its packaging in particular can prove problematic.
“A significant consumption of individual bottles or packs generates environmental costs and raises the question of microplastics or antimonies (medications present in certain bottled waters)”, specifies the expert.
Then, staying well hydrated is not enough (obviously) to counterbalance the excesses of everyday life.
Ricard pastis
While it occupied first place in the ranking in 2024, Ricard fell one place this year and found itself in second position. A significant place, however, which shows that the French remain attached to this drink.
However, even moderate amounts of alcohol increase the risk of liver diseases (steatosis, alcoholic hepatitis, fibrosis, cirrhosis), cardiovascular diseases and cancers.
“When alcohol is metabolized, it produces a toxic byproduct, acetaldehyde, which can damage liver cells,” confirms the dietitian. “It also provides “empty calories” which can promote weight gain and distract you from a balanced diet.”
Also, even if this ranking reflects the importance of alcohol in the hearts (and fridge) of the French, “limit the frequency and quantities consumed. Favor festive moments rather than systematic consumption, and make sure that this does not become a daily reflex.”
advises the expert.
The soda: Coca-Cola
Is this a surprise? The ranking revealed by the NielsenIQ panelist shows that Coca-Cola occupies a prime position in the consumption habits of the French. Indeed, if we find the 1.75 liter bottle in 3rd position, the pack of 6 33 cl cans also takes 4th place, followed closely by the 1.25 liter bottle in 8th place. But be careful, regular consumption of Coca-Cola is anything but harmless.
“Sugary sodas contain a relatively large amount of added sugars, responsible for spikes in blood sugar, pancreatic (insulin) stimulation and, in the long term, an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes or insulin resistance,” warns the nutritionist.
Sipping glasses of Coca-Cola (or other sodas: Fanta, Orangina, etc.) also promotes the appearance of digestive disorders – such as constipation.
Of course, don’t trust the advertisements: so-called “light” drinks are not better for your health. They have a considerable impact on satiety due to the artificial sweeteners used.
“Finally, we are witnessing a trivialization of liquid sweet pleasure, to the detriment of water and unsweetened herbal teas,” regrets the expert.
In summary: nutritional recommendations remain relevant even in the land of the art of eating well. To combine health and pleasure of the table, subscribe to our Nutrition newsletter!