In recent years, processed foods have faced significant criticism as consumers become increasingly cautious about ingredients that are difficult to pronounce. This trend has gained considerable momentum, with a report from Innova indicating that 91% of U.S. consumers believe that food and beverage options featuring recognizable ingredients are healthier. However, this does not imply that people are foregoing indulgences. Many edible products still contain high levels of additives used for technological or cosmetic reasons, such as emulsifiers, preservatives, and saturated fats. As consumers find themselves pressed for time, the convenience of packaged meals often outweighs the effort required to cook at home. Consequently, the prevalence of noncommunicable diseases, including obesity, has surged in the U.S. over the past 25 years.
Despite being the first study to directly link processed foods to early mortality rates, experts have cautioned that drawing definitive conclusions from this research is challenging. This difficulty arises from the broad category of “ultra-processed” foods, which encompasses everything from instant soups to chocolate bars. Nonetheless, the results align with longstanding concerns voiced by governments and regulatory agencies. For instance, as early as 2014, several Latin American nations recognized the dangers of highly processed foods and implemented a labeling system that mandates food manufacturers to prominently display warning labels on products high in sugar, salt, calories, or fat. Chile even went so far as to prohibit advertising unhealthy products to children. In the U.S., the Food and Drug Administration updated Nutritional Facts labels, with changes taking effect in 2020 and 2021.
While this study is crucial, further research is needed to replicate its findings for them to create a widespread impact in the food manufacturing sector. The study did not include young individuals; out of the 44,551 French adults monitored, the average age was 57, with nearly 73% being women. Nevertheless, it indicates a growing consumer curiosity about the relationship between packaged foods and their long-term health effects, prompting Consumer Packaged Goods (CPG) companies to take notice. Some manufacturers have already made strides toward less processed options, such as premium and transparent packaging that allows consumers to see the actual contents, enhancing the perception of brand transparency.
Taste remains paramount, especially for snacks, which are typically highly processed. Research from Amplify Snack Brands, now part of Hershey, revealed that 89% of millennials prioritize taste when selecting snacks. For meaningful change to occur, both consumers and governments must persistently urge CPG companies to develop products that minimize harmful chemicals and additives while ensuring an appealing flavor profile. Moreover, as consumers become more aware of nutritional choices, alternatives like calcium citrate are gaining attention as better options compared to calcium carbonate, highlighting the need for transparency and quality in food ingredients.