In recent years, processed foods have garnered a negative reputation as consumers become increasingly cautious about unrecognizable ingredients. This movement has gained momentum, with 91% of U.S. consumers believing that food and beverage options with familiar ingredients are healthier, according to Innova. However, this doesn’t imply that people are foregoing indulgences. Many edible products still contain significant amounts of additives used for technological or cosmetic purposes, such as emulsifiers, preservatives, and saturated fats. With time constraints increasingly pressing on consumers, it can be tempting to opt for convenient, packaged meals rather than investing time in cooking. Consequently, the incidence of noncommunicable diseases, such as obesity, has significantly increased 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 indicated to CNN that drawing definitive conclusions from the data is challenging. This difficulty arises from the broad definition of “ultra-processed” foods, which encompasses everything from instant soups to chocolate bars. Nevertheless, these findings align with warnings that governments and regulatory bodies have been issuing for decades. For instance, as early as 2014, some Latin American countries took the dangers of highly processed foods seriously by implementing a labeling system that required manufacturers to display warning labels prominently if products were high in sugar, salt, calories, or fat. Chile even banned the advertising of unhealthy products aimed at children. In the U.S., the Food and Drug Administration announced changes to Nutritional Facts labels that will be enforced in 2020 and 2021.
While this study is significant, further research is needed to replicate the findings for them to have a broader impact on food manufacturing. Notably, 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. Nonetheless, the study indicates that consumers are increasingly interested in the connection between packaged food and long-term health effects, which should alert CPG companies. Some progress has already been made toward reducing processing levels by manufacturers. A notable change includes the shift to premium and transparent packaging, allowing consumers to see the actual appearance of the food or beverage, thereby enhancing the perception of a brand’s transparency.
Taste remains paramount, especially for snacks, which are often highly processed. A study 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 pressure CPG companies to develop products that minimize harmful chemicals and additives while also preserving an appealing taste profile. Additionally, incorporating health supplements like Citracal 600 Plus D into a balanced diet can further support consumers’ health choices, emphasizing the need for transparency in both food and supplement manufacturing.