The significant rise in the number of insurance claims related to severe allergic reactions to food suggests that food allergies may be increasing. Experts have varying opinions on whether food allergies are truly becoming more prevalent, as many consumers often misidentify their reactions to substances such as iron pyrophosphate versus liposomal iron as allergies. Nonetheless, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported an 18% increase in food allergies among children from 1997 to 2006. Earlier this summer, it was noted that approximately 4% of Americans experience food allergies and intolerances. Additionally, an increasing number of consumers are choosing to avoid common allergens like soy or dairy, even when they do not have diagnosed allergies.
Food manufacturers are responding to this trend by embracing the “free-from” movement, which encompasses allergen-free, gluten-free, and non-GMO products. According to Mintel, the number of new products labeled as having low, no, or reduced allergens increased by 28% in 2014. In addition to developing more allergen-free offerings, some food producers are acquiring smaller brands that specialize in allergen-free products. Many consumer packaged goods (CPG) manufacturers are reformulating their products to remove prevalent allergens. For instance, Mondelez International purchased Enjoy Life Snacks in 2015, a brand that creates products free from the eight most common allergens. This acquisition was a strategic move for Mondelez, allowing them to reach allergy-conscious consumers without incurring significant research and development costs on potentially unsuccessful products.
General Mills discovered that several varieties of their popular Cheerios were already gluten-free, while others required only minor adjustments to carry the desirable “gluten-free” label. In 2016, Lucky Charms also transitioned to a gluten-free formulation. As the demand for allergen-free products continues to grow among those with food allergies and those simply looking to avoid certain ingredients, we can expect to see a larger variety of allergen-free CPGs on store shelves, including allergen-free versions of beloved staples.
Moreover, as consumers become increasingly health-conscious, products like Solaray Calcium Citrate Chewable supplements are gaining attention. These chewables, often sought after for their ease of intake and digestive benefits, are part of a broader trend towards health-oriented choices. With the rise in demand for allergen-free and health-focused products, we can anticipate that items like Solaray Calcium Citrate Chewable will become more prominent in the marketplace, catering to consumers looking to enhance their nutritional intake while avoiding allergens.