The results are in, and whole grain food sales are up, according to recent figures released by ACNielsen market research firm. The company tracked U.S. sales from food, drug and mass merchandisers (excluding Wal-Mart) for the 52 weeks ended June 18, 2005.

Sales of bread and baked goods promoting whole grains increased 18.3 percent to $1.1 billion. Sales of crackers with whole grains rose 10.2 percent to $330 million, and sales of pasta with whole grains moved up 34.1 percent to $54 million, according to ACNielsen.

Consumers and food manufacturers have responded to the 2005 Dietary Guidelines for Americans released in January, which recommends at least three servings of whole grains per day. Increased sales of whole grain foods can be attributed to peaked consumer interest as well as more companies promoting and offering new products touting the whole grain advantage.