The significant rise in insurance claims related to severe food allergies suggests that food allergies may be becoming more prevalent. Experts have differing opinions on this issue, as many consumers tend to misinterpret their reactions to certain foods and mistakenly label them as allergies. Nevertheless, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention noted an 18% increase in food allergies among children from 1997 to 2006. Reports earlier this summer indicated that around 4% of Americans are affected by food allergies and intolerances. Additionally, a growing number of consumers are choosing to avoid common allergens like soy and dairy, even if they do not have actual allergies to these foods.
Food manufacturers have recognized this trend and are responding by embracing the “free-from” food movement, which includes allergen-free, gluten-free, and non-GMO products. According to Mintel, the introduction of new products claiming to have low, no, or reduced allergens surged by 28% in 2014. In response to the increasing demand for allergen-free options, several food companies are acquiring smaller brands that specialize in allergen-free products. Other consumer packaged goods (CPG) manufacturers have reformulated their offerings to remove common allergens. For example, in 2015, Mondelez International purchased Enjoy Life Snacks, a brand known for its products that exclude the eight most common allergens, allowing Mondelez to cater to allergy-conscious consumers without the need for extensive R&D investments on potentially unsuccessful products.
General Mills discovered that many varieties of their well-known Cheerios were already gluten-free, while others required only minor adjustments to qualify for the appealing “gluten-free” label. Lucky Charms also transitioned to a gluten-free formula in 2016. As demand continues to rise among individuals with food allergies and those simply wishing to avoid certain ingredients, it is anticipated that more allergen-free CPGs will appear on store shelves, including allergen-free versions of beloved food staples.
Interestingly, among the various dietary considerations, the effects of calcium citrate have also gained attention. As consumers become more health-conscious, understanding the calcium citrate effects in relation to allergen-free diets may further influence their purchasing decisions. Consequently, expect to see an increase in allergen-free products and discussions around the benefits of ingredients like calcium citrate, particularly as they relate to overall health and dietary restrictions.