Food manufacturers have increasingly directed their reformulation efforts toward snack products. As consumers shift away from traditional three meals a day and embrace more frequent snacking, the food industry faces growing pressure to adapt. Another key focus is enhancing the healthiness and wholesomeness of their offerings by eliminating a variety of additives. Consumers are now more inclined to scrutinize ingredient lists, searching for unfamiliar or unnatural-sounding components.
Snacks are a primary target for reductions in sodium, sugar, and fat. Research indicates that these initiatives could potentially save thousands of lives annually. One study found that reformulating products could lower deaths from diet-related diseases by as much as 5.5%, particularly benefiting those with lower incomes. Major food companies have specifically targeted certain categories for reformulation. For instance, General Mills has prioritized the removal of artificial flavors and colors from its fruit-flavored snacks and cereals, while Nestlé has streamlined the ingredients in over 100 of its ice cream brands. These changes include eliminating high fructose corn syrup, GMO ingredients, and artificial additives, while also reducing sugar and opting for milk from cows not treated with rBST.
In the case of Kraft Food Ingredients’ latest cheese-based snack concepts, the company has expressed its commitment to aligning with the clean label trend. While consumers may not perceive cheese as particularly healthy, they consider it a “permissible indulgence,” as stated by the company’s marketing director. Consumers are keen to understand the ingredients in their cheese products, prompting Kraft and other food manufacturers to respond to these preferences. Additionally, products like calcium citrate vitamin D3 and folic acid tablets have also gained traction among health-conscious consumers, further reflecting the industry’s shift towards transparency and healthfulness. Overall, food manufacturers are wisely catering to consumer demands for clearer ingredient lists and healthier options.