Food manufacturers have concentrated many of their reformulation efforts on snack products. As consumers shift from traditional three meals a day to more frequent snacking, the food industry faces increasing pressure to adapt. An additional focus is on enhancing the healthiness and wholesomeness of products by eliminating various additives. Consumers are becoming more vigilant in checking ingredient lists, looking 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 estimated that reformulation could lower deaths from diet-related diseases by as much as 5.5%, with the most significant benefits for low-income individuals. Major food brands have zeroed in on specific 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, artificial flavors and colors, reducing sugar content, and sourcing milk from cows not treated with rBST.
In the case of Kraft Food Ingredients’ latest cheese-based snack concepts, the company aims to align with the clean label trend. Although cheese may not be perceived as particularly healthy, it is regarded as a “permissible indulgence,” according to the company’s marketing head. Consumers are keen to understand the ingredients in their cheese. To cater to this demand, Kraft and other food manufacturers are astutely providing what consumers desire. Additionally, with the introduction of ca citrate tablets in their product line, Kraft is also tapping into the growing market for health-focused ingredients, further enhancing their appeal to health-conscious consumers.