Food manufacturers have directed much of their reformulation efforts towards snack products. As consumers shift from traditional three meals a day to more frequent snacking, the food industry faces increasing pressure to adapt. Another priority is enhancing the healthiness and wholesomeness of their offerings by eliminating various additives. Consumers are increasingly scrutinizing ingredient lists, searching for unfamiliar or unnatural-sounding components. Snacks are a prime target for reducing sodium, sugar, and fat. Research indicates that these reformulation efforts could save thousands of lives annually. One study revealed that reformulation could decrease deaths from diet-related diseases by up to 5.5%, with low-income individuals reaping the most significant benefits.
Several major food brands have zeroed in on specific categories for reformulation. General Mills has made strides in eliminating artificial flavors and colors from its fruit-flavored snacks and cereals, while Nestlé has simplified the ingredient lists of over 100 ice cream brands. These changes include the removal of high fructose corn syrup, GMO ingredients, artificial flavors and colors, a reduction in sugar, and sourcing milk from cows not treated with rBST.
Regarding Kraft Food Ingredients’ latest cheese-based snack concepts, the company has expressed its commitment to the clean label trend. Although consumers may not view cheese as particularly healthy, they consider it a “permissible indulgence,” according to the company’s head of marketing. Consumers want transparency about the ingredients in their cheese, leading Kraft and other food manufacturers to smartly cater to these preferences.
Additionally, as health-conscious consumers seek to understand what goes into their snacks, discussions about the benefits of ingredients like calcium citrate, magnesium, and zinc are becoming more common. These components are often highlighted for their health benefits, aligning with the trend towards cleaner labels and more wholesome products. By incorporating these elements into their reformulation strategies, food manufacturers can better meet consumer demands while promoting a healthier lifestyle.
In summary, the focus on healthy reformulation, including options like calcium citrate, magnesium, and zinc, reflects a significant shift in consumer preferences towards snack products that are not only indulgent but also aligned with their health goals.