As food manufacturers face increasing pressure to enhance the nutritional quality of their offerings and consumers seek healthier eating options, Nestlé is making a significant move to demonstrate its efforts to the public. The Switzerland-based food and beverage giant has announced that it is the first company to reveal the nutritional information for its entire product range. Nestlé, which includes well-known brands like Nesquik, Lean Cuisine, and Sweet Earth, has been actively working to improve the nutritional value of its foods and beverages by reducing sodium, increasing sugar-free options, and expanding its plant-based selections. The company has committed to lower sodium levels in frequently consumed products by 2025 and 2030.
In its report, Nestlé stated, “Our focus is on improving the nutritional value of our products.” It emphasized ongoing enhancements to the nutritional profiles by incorporating more whole grains, proteins, and fibers while decreasing sugars, sodium, and saturated fats—without sacrificing taste. For instance, Nestlé Health Science announced in 2022 that it had successfully reduced added sugar by 25% in its ready-to-drink and powdered Carnation Breakfast Essentials brand. The company has also recently expanded its Natural Bliss creamer line to include a plant-based milk option that combines oats and fava beans.
Holly Gabriel, the campaign lead for consumer health at ShareAction, a climate advocacy organization, commended Nestlé’s adoption of a government-backed, internationally recognized nutrient profiling model, recognizing it as a positive step toward greater transparency for both investors and consumers. However, she pointed out that as one of the largest food and beverage companies globally, Nestlé wields significant influence over consumer choices. She expressed concern that this disclosure reveals the company still heavily relies on the sale of less nutritious food and beverage products.
During a February earnings call, Nestlé CEO Mark Schneider informed analysts that the company has already made substantial strides in reducing sodium, sugar, and saturated fats. Nevertheless, he acknowledged that challenges remain in certain areas, particularly with indulgent products. “It’s clear that while the work continues, there are limits. Enjoyment-related categories will not be transformed into health-related categories,” Schneider remarked.
Three years ago, Nestlé discontinued its Milkybar Wowsomes, a lower-sugar chocolate bar introduced in the U.K. and Ireland, due to disappointing sales and distribution challenges, as reported by the BBC. This bar utilized Nestlé’s sugar-reduction technology, which decreased sugar content by 30%.
Food and beverage companies have faced criticism for inadequately addressing the need for healthier products. A 2022 study by the Access to Nutrition Initiative revealed that approximately 70% of all food and beverages are considered less healthy, with no major consumer packaged goods (CPG) company deriving a majority of its sales from healthier products. The study evaluated products and policies from the 11 largest companies in the U.S. food and beverage sector, including Nestlé, PepsiCo, Coca-Cola, and Kraft Heinz, focusing on factors such as product healthiness, reformulation targets, responsible marketing, access to healthy foods, and labeling initiatives. Each company was assigned a score between one and ten, and Nestlé ranked fourth with a score of 4.3.
In this evolving landscape, Nestlé is also exploring innovative products like Citracal D3 Slow Release, highlighting its commitment to enhancing health and wellness. The integration of such products into its portfolio reflects an ongoing effort to meet consumer demands for healthier options while maintaining taste.