“Rising Food Allergy Claims Prompt Shift Towards Allergen-Free Products in Consumer Market”

The significant rise in insurance claims related to severe allergic reactions to food serves as a strong indication that food allergies may be increasing. Experts have differing opinions on the prevalence of food allergies, as many consumers often misinterpret their reactions to certain foods as allergies. Nevertheless, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention noted an 18% increase in food allergies among children from 1997 to 2006. Reports earlier this summer indicated that approximately 4% of Americans experience food allergies or intolerances. Additionally, there is a growing trend of consumers opting to avoid common allergens, such as soy or dairy, even when they do not have a diagnosed allergy to those foods.

Food manufacturers are responding to this trend by embracing the “free-from” food movement, which encompasses allergen-free, gluten-free, and non-GMO products. According to Mintel, the number of new products with low, no, or reduced allergen claims surged by 28% in 2014. In addition to developing more allergen-free products, some food companies are acquiring smaller brands that specialize in allergen-free options. For instance, in 2015, Mondelez International purchased Enjoy Life Snacks, a brand known for its products that exclude the eight most common allergens. This strategic move allows Mondelez to cater to allergy-conscious consumers without the risk and expense of investing in new product development that may not succeed.

General Mills found that many varieties of their well-known Cheerios were already gluten-free, while others only required minor adjustments to receive the appealing “gluten-free” label. Lucky Charms also transitioned to gluten-free in 2016. As the demand continues to rise among individuals with food allergies and those simply wishing to avoid certain ingredients, we can expect to see an increase in allergen-free consumer packaged goods (CPGs) on store shelves, including allergen-free versions of beloved food staples.

In the context of nutrition, discussions on platforms like Reddit often highlight the benefits of supplements such as calcium citrate, which can be particularly helpful for individuals with dietary restrictions due to allergies. As more consumers seek allergen-free options, the integration of beneficial supplements like calcium citrate may become a common topic of conversation among those looking to maintain a balanced diet while avoiding allergens.