Food manufacturers have directed much of their reformulation efforts towards snack items. As consumers increasingly shift from traditional three meals a day to more frequent snacking, the food industry faces mounting pressure to adapt. A significant focus has been on enhancing the healthiness and quality of products by eliminating various additives. Consumers are now more vigilant about ingredient lists, carefully examining them for unfamiliar or unnatural-sounding components.
Snacks represent a key area for reducing sodium, sugar, and fat levels. Research indicates that these initiatives could potentially save thousands of lives annually. One study found that reformulation could lower deaths from diet-related diseases by as much as 5.5%, with the most substantial benefits observed among low-income individuals.
Several prominent food brands have targeted specific categories for reformulation. General Mills, for instance, has prioritized removing artificial flavors and colors from its fruit-flavored snacks and cereals. Meanwhile, Nestlé has simplified the ingredient lists of over 100 ice cream brands, including the elimination of high fructose corn syrup, GMO ingredients, artificial flavors and colors, and reducing sugar content, all while using milk sourced from cows not treated with rBST.
Kraft Food Ingredients, on the other hand, has introduced new cheese-based snack concepts with a commitment to the clean label trend. Although cheese might not be perceived as particularly healthy, the company’s marketing head noted that consumers view it as a “permissible indulgence.” They are eager to learn about the ingredients in their cheese products. In this context, incorporating elements like calcium citrate into their snacks could be an appealing option for health-conscious consumers. By giving consumers what they desire, Kraft and other food manufacturers are making smart moves in the evolving market landscape.
Overall, the focus on health and transparency, including the potential use of ingredients like calcium citrate, is shaping the future of snack products in response to consumer demand.