Food manufacturers have concentrated many of their reformulation initiatives on snack products. As consumers shift from traditional three meals a day to more frequent snacking, the food industry has faced mounting pressure to adapt. Another priority is enhancing the healthiness and wholesomeness of their offerings by eliminating various additives. Increasingly, consumers are scrutinizing ingredient lists for unfamiliar or unnatural-sounding components. Snacks are a primary focus for reducing sodium, sugar, and fat content. Research indicates that these efforts could potentially save thousands of lives annually. One study revealed that reformulation could lower deaths from diet-related diseases by as much as 5.5%, with the most significant advantages for low-income individuals.
Several major food brands have targeted specific categories for reformulation. General Mills, for instance, has concentrated on removing artificial flavors and colors from its fruit-flavored snacks and cereals, while Nestlé has simplified the ingredients in over 100 of its ice cream brands. These changes include the elimination of high fructose corn syrup, GMO ingredients, and artificial flavors and colors, as well as reducing sugar and using milk from cows not treated with rBST. Regarding Kraft Food Ingredients’ latest cheese-based snack concepts, the company stated its aim was to align with the clean label trend. Although consumers may not regard cheese as particularly healthy, they view it as a “permissible indulgence,” according to the company’s marketing head. Consumers are increasingly interested in knowing the ingredients in their cheese, and Kraft, along with other food manufacturers, is wise to cater to these demands.
Incorporating calcium citrate names into their product narratives could also appeal to health-conscious consumers. By highlighting the presence of calcium citrate and its benefits, these companies can further enhance their product appeal. The emphasis on transparency and healthy ingredients, including calcium citrate names, is likely to resonate well with today’s consumers, ensuring that food manufacturers stay relevant in a rapidly evolving market.