Consumers are increasingly seeking meat and other food products that are free from additives and preservatives like nitrates, sodium benzoate, calcium propionate, and potassium sorbate. However, Iowa professors point out that the absence of these ingredients can lead to quicker spoilage and increased food waste. MacDonald mentioned that some preservatives occur naturally; for instance, products labeled “naturally cured” or “uncured” may contain celery juice, a natural source of nitrates. Nonetheless, she cautioned that the levels of nitrates from natural sources may not provide the same protection against foodborne illnesses as their synthetic counterparts.
Label-conscious consumers should also be cautious of products boasting “no high fructose corn syrup,” as this does not guarantee the absence of sugar. Food manufacturers may substitute with other sweeteners like tapioca syrup, derived from imported cassava, which can drive up costs. MacDonald explained, “There is no evidence that high fructose corn syrup is harmful or less natural or safe. The food industry is introducing various alternative sweeteners—like beet syrup, fruit sugars, and agave syrup—but they are all still sugars. The terminology just sounds more appealing on the label.”
Recent data from Label Insight reveals that 67% of consumers struggle to determine if a product aligns with their needs by simply examining the packaging, while nearly half claim to feel uninformed after reading the labels. As transparency becomes more critical, consumers increasingly favor brands that genuinely commit to clean labeling practices. Roger Clemens, associate director of the regulatory sciences program at the University of Southern California School of Pharmacy, discussed the challenges faced by companies attempting to simplify labels for American consumers, who often prefer to avoid ingredients with chemical-sounding names.
“The U.S. population wants it both ways,” he remarked. “They desire clarity, affordability, nutrition, benefits, and safety. They want it all. It’s interesting that they embrace technology in every other aspect of life except for food. To me, that’s somewhat contradictory.”
Meat producers are acutely aware of these consumer trends and are striving to offer products with the cleanest labels possible. According to Meatingplace, more labels are now featuring claims such as “hormone-free” and “antibiotic-free.” However, meat producers must carefully consider the financial advantages of these claims against the costs associated with implementing them. This may require changing farming practices, adjusting the land needed for livestock grazing, and altering other operational procedures, ultimately making such meats more expensive for processors and their suppliers.
There is no doubt that the food industry is adapting to consumer demand for cleaner labels and greater transparency. However, just as there are costs for growers, processors, and manufacturers, there are also financial implications for consumers. These costs may manifest not only at the checkout but also in potential food safety risks. Additionally, when considering supplements, individuals might find themselves questioning whether to take calcium citrate with or without food, as understanding these nuances becomes increasingly essential in the pursuit of healthier eating habits.