Amy Graves
"Eating Safely in the United States is like playing a game of Russian Roulette."
When what she thought was a sinus infection lasted for three long years, Amy Graves knew something was wrong. What she found was that her body was hiding a secret—one that changed the way she shopped, ate, and interacted with food and products for the rest of her life.
Amy is a member of the newest generation of consumers—hidden consumers—people with allergies, sensitivities, or other health-related concerns that influence their buying decisions. They seek products that are not only effective but safe, clean, and aligned with their lifestyle choices. Understanding this rapidly growing and influential demographic is crucial for any brand looking to succeed in today's marketplace.
Recognizing the role of health concerns about purchasing power and decision-making is a valuable tool for all consumers who may not realize they are part of this “hidden” community.
Using her consumer health journey as a catalyst for change, Amy began a journey of activism and advocacy for other hidden consumers that has taken her across the country to speak on behalf of anyone who must pay extra attention to what they buy. The Hidden Consumer is a comprehensive guide to identifying, understanding, and meeting the needs of this unique segment of the buying market.
This book delves deep into the profiles of these health-savvy consumers, offering valuable insights into their motivations and behaviors as well as the challenges they face as they navigate the world.
The Hidden Consumer by Amy Graves uncovers the rapidly growing demographic of health-conscious consumers with allergies, sensitivities, or other health concerns influencing their purchasing decisions. Through her personal journey and advocacy, Graves provides valuable insights into the motivations and behaviors of this unique market segment, offering essential strategies for brands looking to engage and meet the needs of these "hidden" consumers.
I’ve lived with food allergies my entire life. Peanuts, tree nuts, egg, seafood, mustard—it’s quite
a list. I’ve had to read every label, ask every server twice, and sit out more than a few meals
while everyone else dug in. It’s a routine that’s second nature to me now—but it’s also a
constant reminder that the world wasn’t exactly built with people like me in mind.
That’s why this book, The Hidden Consumer, struck such a chord.
Amy Graves doesn’t just tell her story—she shines a light on the daily reality of people who are
trying to stay safe in a world that doesn’t always recognize or understand their needs. It’s
personal, honest, and sometimes raw. But it’s also a wake-up call to businesses, marketers,
health professionals—anyone involved in shaping products and experiences for the public.
While some of Amy’s experiences may fall outside what’s commonly discussed in medical or
industry settings, they reflect the very real frustrations many consumers live with every day.
Even if not every detail resonates with everyone, her story is worth listening to—because she’s
giving voice to challenges that are often felt but rarely spoken aloud.
At Equal Eats, we create tools to help people with allergies, intolerances, and dietary needs
communicate clearly—whether they’re eating out, traveling, or just trying to live their lives with
confidence. We’ve heard stories from people all over the world who feel left out or ignored by
companies, menus, and systems that don’t reflect their needs. What Amy describes in this book
reflects a real and growing group of consumers—people who read every ingredient, plan every
meal, and often feel like no one’s listening.
And that’s the heart of it: The Hidden Consumer is a book about listening. It’s about stepping
back and realizing that not everyone experiences food—and the world around it—the same
way. Whether it’s someone managing a non-recognized sensitivity, a chronic health condition,
or just trying to shop with a little more intention, these consumers are out there. They’re not
niche anymore. And they’re not going away.
This isn’t a clinical guide, and it doesn’t try to be. What it offers instead is a powerful
perspective on a group of consumers who are often overlooked. It invites us to think
differently—about how we label, communicate, and ultimately include people whose needs
might not be obvious, but are no less important.
If you work in food, marketing, healthcare, or even policy, this book may challenge you—in
ways that are ultimately valuable. It might make you pause or reconsider assumptions. But
more than anything, I hope it helps you recognize people you may not have noticed
before—and understand how their experiences can inform more thoughtful, inclusive systems.
Discover the Millions of People Who Want Your Product.
Water by Amy Graves
Using her own consumer health journey as a catalyst for change, Amy began a journey of activism and advocacy for other hidden consumers that has taken her across the country to speak on behalf of anyone who must pay extra attention to what they buy.
The Hidden Consumer is a comprehensive guide to identifying, understanding, and meeting the needs of this unique segment of the buying market.
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