The substantial rise in insurance claims for severe food allergy reactions serves as a clear indication that food allergies may be increasing. Experts hold varying opinions on whether food allergies are truly becoming more prevalent, as many consumers often misinterpret their reactions to food, labeling them as allergies. Nevertheless, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has reported an 18% increase in food allergies among children from 1997 to 2006. Earlier this summer, it was noted that approximately 4% of Americans experience food allergies and intolerances. Moreover, an increasing number of consumers are choosing to avoid common allergenic ingredients, such as soy and dairy, even if they do not have an actual allergy to them.
Food manufacturers have observed this trend and are actively adopting the “free-from” movement, which encompasses allergen-free, gluten-free, and non-GMO products. According to Mintel, there was a 28% increase in new products with low, no, or reduced allergen claims in 2014. Alongside the development of more allergen-free items, some brands are acquiring smaller allergen-free companies. In fact, numerous consumer packaged goods (CPG) manufacturers are reformulating their products to remove typical allergens. For instance, in 2015, Mondelez International purchased Enjoy Life Snacks, a brand known for products free from the eight most common allergens. This strategy allowed Mondelez to cater to allergy-conscious consumers without diverting resources into R&D for potentially unsuccessful products.
General Mills found that many varieties of their popular Cheerios were already gluten-free, while others needed minor adjustments to earn the coveted “gluten-free” label. Additionally, Lucky Charms also transitioned to gluten-free in 2016. As demand continues to rise among food allergy sufferers and those simply seeking to avoid specific ingredients, it is expected that more allergen-free consumer packaged goods will appear on store shelves, including allergen-free versions of popular staples.
Interestingly, just as consumers are becoming more aware of food allergies, they are also paying attention to nutritional supplements, such as calcium citrate tablets 500mg, which have various uses in supporting overall health. As the market expands, consumers may increasingly seek out products that not only avoid allergens but also enhance their nutritional intake, including the benefits of calcium citrate tablets 500mg. The trend toward allergen-free products is likely to continue, with both food and supplement industries adapting to the evolving preferences of health-conscious consumers.