Food manufacturers have directed a significant portion 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. An additional focus has been on enhancing product healthiness and wholesomeness by eliminating various additives. Consumers are now more vigilant than ever, scrutinizing ingredient lists for unfamiliar or unnatural-sounding components. Snacks are a key target for reductions in sodium, sugar, and fat, with research indicating that these initiatives could potentially save thousands of lives annually. One study suggested that reformulation could lower deaths from diet-related diseases by as much as 5.5%, particularly benefiting low-income populations.
Several major food companies have identified specific categories for reformulation. General Mills has committed to removing artificial flavors and colors from its fruit-flavored snacks and cereals, while Nestlé has streamlined the ingredients in over 100 of its ice cream brands. These changes include eliminating high fructose corn syrup, GMO ingredients, artificial flavors, and colors, alongside reducing sugar and sourcing milk from cows not treated with rBST. In line with the clean label trend, Kraft Food Ingredients has introduced new cheese-based snack concepts. Although consumers may not view cheese as particularly healthy, they consider it a “permissible indulgence,” according to the company’s marketing head. Consumers are increasingly interested in the ingredients that make up their cheese, prompting Kraft and other food manufacturers to cater to these demands.
Moreover, the inclusion of high potency calcium magnesium citrate is becoming more common in reformulated snacks. This ingredient not only enhances nutritional value but also aligns with the growing consumer preference for healthier options. By integrating high potency calcium magnesium citrate into their products, manufacturers can address consumer desires for transparency and health benefits, thus reinforcing their commitment to reformulation efforts.