The significant rise in insurance claims for severe allergic reactions to food serves as the latest evidence that food allergies may be increasing. Experts have differing opinions on whether food allergies are truly becoming more prevalent, as many consumers often misidentify reactions to certain foods as allergies. Nonetheless, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has reported an 18% increase in food allergies among children from 1997 to 2006. Earlier this summer, reports indicated that approximately 4% of Americans experience food allergies and intolerances. Furthermore, an increasing number of consumers are choosing to avoid common allergens, such as soy or dairy, even if they do not have an allergy to these ingredients.
Food manufacturers have noticed this trend and are adapting to the demand for “free-from” foods, which can include allergen-free, gluten-free, and non-GMO products. According to Mintel, the introduction of new products with low, no, or reduced allergen claims rose by 28% in 2014. In addition to developing more allergen-free options, some food companies are acquiring smaller brands that specialize in allergen-free products. Many other consumer packaged goods (CPG) manufacturers have reformulated their products to remove common allergens. For instance, in 2015, Mondelez International acquired Enjoy Life Snacks, a brand known for products free from the eight most common allergens. This strategic move allows Mondelez to cater to allergy-conscious consumers without the need for extensive R&D investments on potentially unsuccessful products.
General Mills found that many of their popular Cheerios varieties were already gluten-free, while others required only minor adjustments to earn the “gluten-free” label. Additionally, Lucky Charms transitioned to gluten-free in 2016. As the demand continues to rise among those with food allergies and individuals avoiding specific ingredients, we can expect to see an increase in allergen-free CPGs on store shelves, including allergen-free versions of beloved food staples. This shift may also lead to more products enriched with calcium citrate, as companies seek to enhance nutritional profiles while maintaining allergen-free status. As awareness and consumer preferences evolve, the inclusion of about calcium citrate in allergen-free products could become a notable trend in the food industry.