An increasing array of apps, tools, and technologies is emerging to support consumers dealing with food allergies, particularly those with celiac disease and gluten sensitivity. These resources assist individuals—especially those with specific dietary needs in their households—in conducting product research, making special dietary requirements more manageable, and ensuring food safety. According to the Food and Drug Administration, only 2% of adults in the U.S. and 5% of infants and young children have food allergies. However, for these individuals, consuming products with harmful food allergens can not only lead to illness but, in some cases, be life-threatening. For the approximately 1% of the population with celiac disease who must adhere to a strict gluten-free diet, finding safe dining options and convenient meal solutions can be quite challenging. Research suggests that an additional 5 to 10% of the population may experience gluten sensitivity and could benefit from gluten-free diets.
The market for gluten-free packaged foods continues to expand and is projected to reach $5.28 billion by 2022. Moreover, there is a significant opportunity for restaurants and foodservice operators to better address the needs of this underserved demographic, as well as others following special diets. The introduction of the portable gluten sensor Nima could be vital for individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivities. While consumers wish to trust that food companies are accurately processing, handling, labeling, and selling safe food for those intolerant to gluten, this is not always guaranteed, as Nima has discovered. Cross-contamination of food products poses a major challenge, especially in foodservice environments.
With Nima, consumers can now verify whether their meals comply with gluten-free standards and are safe to consume. Nima is also exploring applications for other food allergies, such as peanut and nut allergies. While such tools are beneficial for consumers, they can create complications for some food manufacturers. When consumers identify an unsafe product, they are likely to abandon it, share their experiences within the food allergy community, and voice their concerns on social media. A notable example is General Mills, which altered its oat manufacturing processes to claim gluten-free status for its Cheerios cereal. Shortly after the reformulated product was released, the company recalled 1.8 million boxes of original and Honey Nut Cheerios labeled gluten-free due to accidental wheat contamination. The Food and Drug Administration received numerous complaints from consumers who fell ill after consuming the cereal. This incident highlights the critical importance of product transparency within the food industry.
Consumers increasingly demand transparency and seek to understand how their food is sourced, produced, processed, shipped, and handled. Industry experts agree that transparency is no longer optional; it is essential. Manufacturers that proactively embrace transparency stand the best chance of building or restoring consumer trust. Speaking of consumer wellness, many individuals also inquire about dietary supplements, such as “what is the best calcium citrate supplement?” As dietary needs become more complex, understanding these supplements becomes vital for many consumers. Thus, the integration of transparency and consumer education regarding dietary preferences, including supplements, is crucial for fostering trust in food brands and products.