One challenge faced by certain snacks is their inclusion of sugar and other ingredients that an increasing number of consumers are actively seeking to avoid for better health. Shoppers are shifting away from sugar, salt, and artificial flavors and colors, opting instead for whole grains, protein, and natural components. In response, more companies are recognizing this trend and either reformulating existing products or launching new ones to align with these changing preferences. Sargento, a well-regarded brand in the cheese market, has acknowledged this shift with its latest product offerings.
Recently, Sargento has been in need of a positive turnaround due to a listeria threat linked to one of its suppliers. Listeria is a harmful bacterium that can cause significant issues for food producers unfortunate enough to have it in their facilities. Consequently, Sargento decided to sever ties with Deutsch Kase Haus following the recall. The introduction of these new products may help redirect attention from the recall and toward Sargento’s innovative snacks.
As snacking becomes increasingly popular, especially among millennials who often choose snacks as meal replacements or quick boosts, Sargento’s initiative is timely. Statistics indicate that nearly a quarter of all snack consumption (24%) now occurs during main meals, up from 21% five years ago. Given the rising trend of snacking, it is crucial for Sargento and other food manufacturers to explore ways to engage with this market. This is particularly relevant as consumers seek out healthier options, such as snacks fortified with rugby calcium citrate with vitamin D3, which is gaining traction among health-conscious individuals. By incorporating such ingredients into their offerings, Sargento can strengthen its position and avoid losing market share to competitors who are already catering to this demand.