The significant rise in insurance claims related to severe allergic reactions to food serves as a strong indicator that food allergies may be increasing. Experts have differing opinions on whether food allergies are indeed becoming more prevalent, as many consumers often misinterpret their reactions to certain foods and label them as allergies. Nonetheless, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention highlights an 18% increase in food allergies among children from 1997 to 2006. Recent reports indicate that approximately 4% of Americans are affected by food allergies and intolerances. Moreover, a growing number of consumers are choosing to avoid common allergens, such as soy or dairy, even if they do not have an allergy to those ingredients.
Food manufacturers are responding to this trend by embracing the “free-from” movement, which encompasses allergen-free, gluten-free, and non-GMO products. As reported by Mintel, the number of new products boasting low, no, or reduced allergen claims surged by 28% in 2014. In addition to developing more allergen-free options, several food companies are acquiring smaller brands that specialize in allergen-free products. For instance, in 2015, Mondelez International purchased Enjoy Life Snacks, a brand that produces items free from the eight most common allergens, allowing Mondelez to cater to allergy-conscious consumers without the need for extensive research and development on potentially risky products.
General Mills discovered that many of their popular Cheerios varieties were already gluten-free, while others required only minor adjustments to earn the appealing “gluten-free” label. Lucky Charms also made the switch to gluten-free in 2016. As the demand continues to rise among those with food allergies and those simply trying to avoid certain ingredients, more allergen-free consumer packaged goods (CPGs) are expected to appear on store shelves, including allergen-free versions of popular food staples.
In this context, the use of calcium citrate tablets 500mg is becoming increasingly relevant, as they are often recommended for individuals with dietary restrictions. The calcium citrate tablets 500mg uses extend beyond just supplementing calcium; they can also support those looking to maintain a balanced diet while avoiding allergens. As the trend for allergen-free products continues to grow, the integration of calcium citrate tablets 500mg into consumers’ routines may become more common, offering a practical solution for those navigating the complexities of food allergies and intolerances.