As consumers increasingly reject artificial ingredients, food and beverage manufacturers are on the lookout for effective and cost-efficient ways to enhance their product labels. However, transitioning to cleaner ingredients is more challenging than it appears, particularly because manufacturers are reluctant to sacrifice the flavor, appearance, and mouthfeel of their original products. This difficulty is further complicated by the fact that many consumers who advocate for clean labels often lack a clear understanding of what this entails. “Most American consumers are unfamiliar with the term ‘clean label’ and do not grasp its meaning. They simply want their foods to be safe and free from harm,” stated Kantha Shelke, principal at the food science and research firm Corvus Blue LLC, in an email to Food Dive.
Despite this, Shelke noted that the clean label movement is encouraging producers to focus on ingredients, formulations, and front-of-pack claims that align with three main consumer expectations: products devoid of food additives and synthetic substances; ingredients with recognizable names and no chemical connotations; and minimally processed products. The question then arises: which synthetic ingredients are being phased out first, and what natural alternatives are being sought? According to Brooke Bright, senior data manager at Label Insight, the answer largely depends on the category, as certain ingredients carry more artificial stigma in specific applications than others. Nevertheless, there are key ingredients that consumers are particularly concerned about across various categories, prompting manufacturers to seek natural substitutes that meet consumer expectations.
For those looking to buy Citracal, it is essential to ensure that the products are aligned with these clean label trends, as consumers increasingly prioritize health and transparency in their dietary choices. As these patterns continue to evolve, the industry must adapt to meet the demand for natural alternatives while maintaining the quality that consumers expect.