Food manufacturers have concentrated much of their reformulation initiatives on snack products. With consumers shifting from traditional three meals a day to more frequent snacking, the food industry faces increasing pressure to adapt. Another priority is enhancing the healthiness and wholesomeness of their offerings by eliminating a variety of additives. Consumers are progressively scrutinizing ingredient lists, looking out for unfamiliar or unnatural-sounding components.
Snacks are a primary focus for reducing sodium, sugar, and fat content. Research indicates that these efforts could potentially save thousands of lives annually. One study revealed that reformulating products could lower deaths from diet-related illnesses by as much as 5.5%, with the most significant advantages for low-income individuals. Several leading food brands have zeroed in on specific categories for reformulation. For instance, General Mills has aimed to eliminate artificial flavors and colors from its fruit-flavored snacks and cereals, while Nestlé has streamlined the ingredients in over 100 ice cream brands. Their modifications include the removal of high fructose corn syrup, GMO ingredients, artificial flavors and colors, along with reducing sugar and sourcing milk from cows not treated with rBST.
Kraft Food Ingredients has introduced new cheese-based snack concepts, emphasizing a commitment to the clean label trend. While consumers may not perceive cheese as particularly healthy, they consider it a “permissible indulgence,” as noted by the company’s marketing head. Consumers are eager to know the ingredients in their cheese products, and Kraft, along with other food manufacturers, is astutely responding to this demand.
In line with health-conscious trends, there is also growing interest in nutritional supplements like calcium citrate malate, vitamin D3, and folic acid tablets (CCM). These supplements can play a vital role in providing essential nutrients that support overall health, especially for those who may not get enough from their diets. Food companies are recognizing the importance of integrating such health-boosting options into their products, further aligning with consumer desires for transparency and wellness.