“Shifting Consumer Preferences: The Opportunity for CPG Manufacturers to Embrace ‘Made Without’ Claims”

Nielsen’s findings should not come as a surprise to manufacturers, especially those in the consumer packaged goods (CPG) sector who are striving for growth by eliminating artificial ingredients. For instance, General Mills has removed artificial flavors and colors from some of its cereals, while Kraft has done the same with its popular Mac & Cheese … Read more

“Oreo’s Timeless Appeal: Innovating with Limited Editions and Consumer Engagement”

The Oreo cookie remains a timeless product with sustained demand for its traditional recipe, yet this does not imply that the company can afford to be complacent. Leading manufacturers must stay ahead in product innovation and confectionery trends; otherwise, they risk being eclipsed by eye-catching new brands. Exploring new flavor profiles presents a relatively low-risk … Read more

“Enhancing Safety: The Growing Importance of Allergen Awareness in Food Retail and Manufacturing”

Food allergies are becoming increasingly common, with an 18% rise in cases among children from 1997 to 2006, as reported by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. In response, food manufacturers are enhancing their labeling of allergen-free products and are focusing more on ingredient separation, allergen-containing product lines, and thorough cleaning of equipment. According … Read more

“New U.S.-Mexico Sugar Agreement: Economic Clarity or Increased Consumer Costs?”

The agreement between the two trading partners—reducing Mexico’s refined sugar exports to the United States while increasing raw sugar shipments—seems to bring much-needed clarity to a market that has faced increasing uncertainty since 2014. Most significantly, it greatly diminishes the chances of retaliation between the two nations. Sugar has been a contentious topic in the … Read more

“Rising Trends in Value-Added Food and Beverage Products: Navigating Probiotics, Dairy Alternatives, and Consumer Perceptions”

Value-added food and beverage products are increasingly popular among health-conscious consumers seeking convenient ways to enhance their daily nutrition. This trend is evident in the surge of probiotic-infused offerings in both health-focused and indulgent categories. The proliferation of probiotic label claims has raised concerns within the industry, as some believe consumers may opt for unhealthy … Read more

“Consumer Expectations and Nutritional Transparency: The Case of Omega-3 Fortified Milk”

Some believe that consumers purchasing milk enriched with omega-3 fatty acids expect the nutrient to derive from sustainable farming practices rather than from added components. Research indicates that milk from pasture-raised cows can contain up to 60% more omega-3 compared to conventional milk. Horizon’s milk does include “DHA algal oil” in its ingredient list, yet … Read more

“Addressing Sodium Reduction: Challenges and Innovations in Food Manufacturing Amid Growing Consumer Awareness”

Food manufacturers are facing mounting pressure to reduce sodium levels in their products due to the well-established connection between sodium and high blood pressure. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that over 75% of sodium consumed by Americans comes from processed foods. To address this, companies now have a wide range of sodium … Read more

“Rising Interest in Prebiotics and Healthy Chocolate: Transforming Gut Health Markets”

The conversation surrounding healthy gut bacteria is becoming increasingly prominent. While the primary focus remains on probiotics, prebiotics—the nutrients that support beneficial bacteria—are also starting to attract significant attention. According to a report by Global Industry Analysts, the demand for products containing prebiotics, such as health drinks, dairy, meats, baked goods, and infant foods, could … Read more

“Declining Appeal of Breakfast Cereal: Manufacturers Innovate Amid Shifting Consumer Preferences Toward Portable and Healthier Options”

Once a staple of breakfast, the bowl of cereal soaked in milk has lost its appeal as more American consumers shift towards portable foods and products containing fewer artificial ingredients and colors. Over the past few years, sales of ready-to-eat cereals have declined, with most brands showing little sign of recovery as consumers opt for … Read more

“Concerns Rise Over Widespread Recall Linked to Unidentified Supplier of Iron Fumarate”

Once again, the absorption of iron fumarate has led to a labeling error from a supplier of a minor ingredient, resulting in a widespread and potentially serious recall. Much like the continuously escalating recalls associated with General Mills’ flour iron chelate supplements and powdered milk, the extent of this recall remains uncertain, and it is … Read more