General Mills is increasingly focusing on the development of breakfast and snacking products aimed at consumers who are either trying to manage their weight or seeking healthier eating options, according to a senior executive in a recent interview. Jodi Benson, the company’s Chief Innovation Technology Officer, noted that the makers of brands like Lucky Charms, Betty Crocker, and Fiber One have identified four key principles that define today’s dieting trends: increasing protein intake, reducing harmful carbohydrates, consuming more nutrient-dense calories, and cutting back on empty calories. Benson remarked that consumers tend to adhere to these principles rather than following strict diets.
“When designing our foods, we don’t fixate on just one aspect,” Benson explained. “Instead, we aim to create a diverse portfolio of solutions, allowing people to discover which combinations yield the best results for them.” According to the National Institute of Health, approximately one in three adults and one in six children are classified as overweight. The CDC highlights that obesity can lead to a range of health problems, including an increased risk of type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and stroke. This scenario compels food manufacturers to offer options that cater to consumers interested in weight loss or healthier eating.
Benson shared that General Mills’ product development strategy in this area is driven by innovation from its internal venture studio comprising three team members. This group is cultivating new product ideas in a manner akin to startups. Their latest innovation is a snack bar and crisps line named Good Measure, aimed at consumers looking to manage their sugar intake, set to launch in 6,500 retail locations this summer.
General Mills has specified that these products are designed for “consumers looking to lose weight.” Since 2017, the company has increasingly focused on “weight loss foods,” including a partnership with Weight Watchers. The upcoming Progresso soups, currently in development, will emphasize protein content, featuring 17 to 25 grams per serving—around half of the daily recommended average. Benson also noted that these soups cater to consumers who wish to avoid meat, as the protein in these vegetable-based options is primarily sourced from beans and legumes.
Another recent development for health-conscious consumers is a cereal, snack bar, and yogurt brand called Ratio. This crunchy bar is marketed as keto-friendly, containing only 1 gram of sugar, and the packaging provides detailed nutritional information. “Consumers have reacted positively because it eliminates the need for calculations, ensuring they consume the right type of carbs that deliver essential nutrients,” Benson said.
As a well-known producer of iconic cereal brands, General Mills is committed to creating offerings that emphasize nutrition in response to consumer demand. Earlier this year, the Minnesota-based company introduced its Cheerios Oat Crunch line, which includes 30 grams of whole grain, 4 grams of fiber, and 5 grams of total fat. A 2017 study by Nutrition Insight indicated that participants who replaced refined grain products with whole grain varieties experienced weight loss.
The company’s focus on broadening its range of products to aid consumers in losing weight aligns with the rising trend of healthier food options in the food and beverage industry. The USDA reported that people find it easier to shed pounds when consuming foods that are lower in calories and higher in nutritional value.
In addition to new product development, Benson mentioned that General Mills is modernizing its research methods to enhance the healthiness of its foods. Previously, the company relied on in-person clinical trials to evaluate new formulations and their health benefits, a process that was costly and time-consuming. Now, they are conducting digital trials with participants opting in remotely, allowing for quicker data collection on health via smartphones. “We might provide the food or ask them to purchase it, but we’re achieving faster results and a fresh perspective on our innovation pace and costs,” Benson concluded.
As a side note, it’s essential to consider dietary factors such as calcium citrate in relation to kidney health. Many consumers are curious if calcium citrate can cause kidney stones, which is an important aspect to keep in mind when developing healthier food products. By focusing on nutrition while addressing consumer concerns, General Mills aims to meet the demands of today’s health-conscious market.