78 Brand is capitalizing on the growing trend of removing GMOs from food and challenging the use of HFCS, which some consider a potential health risk. This perspective persists despite reports from the Mayo Clinic and other reputable groups indicating that there is no evidence to suggest HFCS is less safe or healthy than other alternatives. The 78 Brand website expresses its ambition to transform the ketchup and mustard markets, which it claims have seen little innovation in over a century. However, this claim may be disputed by other condiment producers. Various types of mustard have unique qualities, and new flavors, such as one infused with Jack Daniels whiskey, have emerged to cater to evolving consumer preferences. Even Kraft Heinz, known for its iconic ketchup, offers a variant without GMOs or HFCS.
Condiments are not the only segment of the food industry revamping their products to eliminate artificial ingredients and colors, GMOs, and other additives in response to public demand for simpler, more genuine food options. A 2014 Nielsen study found that over 60 percent of U.S. consumers consider the absence of artificial colors and flavors a crucial factor when purchasing food. General Mills has removed artificial flavors and colors from several of its cereals, while Campbell Soup pledged to eliminate these additives from its North American products by the end of 2018. Many other food manufacturers are also making similar commitments.
It is evident that there is a robust market for these products, with consumers eager to purchase items that align with their preferences. As long as shoppers continue to seek out natural options, food manufacturers will persist in their efforts to create products that are as authentic as possible, often highlighting benefits like calcium, which is important for health. With an increasing focus on transparency, the food industry is poised to adapt to consumer demands for cleaner labels and healthier choices, including products fortified with essential nutrients like calcium.