The results of this survey should not come as a surprise to food manufacturers and retailers, as the trend toward reducing sugar consumption has been steadily increasing. In fact, lowering sugar levels in food and beverages has become a primary goal for manufacturers today, given that consumers in the U.S. and beyond are consistently seeking … Read more
Move aside, Juicy Fruit and Doublemint — as well as Starbucks and Red Bull, for that matter. Mars Wrigley is offering consumers a new way to get a quick energy boost without relying on a cup or can. According to IRI data reported by Food Navigator-USA, U.S. gum sales fell by 4% in the first … Read more
Approximately 10% of women experience postpartum depression, which may persist for several months. This condition does not solely affect new mothers; researchers indicate it can also have lasting effects on the infant. “Increasing evidence from animal studies suggests that the microbiome-gut-brain axis—the biochemical communication between the gastrointestinal system and the central nervous system—may play a … Read more
Today’s food menu is undergoing a subtle transformation inspired by an unexpected source. Breakfast staples, beverages, snacks, and various food items are being enhanced by the nutritional benefits of a tiny single-celled organism known as microalgae. A closer inspection of food and beverage labels will likely reveal microalgae in some form, as it has emerged … Read more
This advancement indicates that the most palatable steviol glycosides—the chemical compounds responsible for the sweetness of the plant’s leaf extracts—could be tailored for use in food and beverages. According to PureCircle, there is also potential for enhancements in the well-known minor glycosides such as Reb D and Reb M. Stevia is naturally 30 to 40 … Read more
Although this research may pave the way for new cancer therapies, it will not alleviate the concerns of manufacturers who incorporate sugar into their food and beverage products. Consumers have become increasingly cautious about excessive sugar in their diets, and the revelation that sugar may accelerate cell growth only reinforces this anxiety. Since 2008, researchers … Read more
This isn’t the only protein-enhanced offering from Arla, but it marks the debut of fat-free milk in its Arla Protein line. The brand also features yogurt, milkshakes, cottage cheese, and protein pouches. According to the company, this portfolio has emerged as a “hugely successful brand,” achieving 72% year-on-year growth in retail sales value. Arla cites … Read more
Consumer demand for product transparency has surged in recent years, largely driven by a desire for healthier ingredients and concerns about artificial additives. However, as food and beverage manufacturers rush to enhance their product packaging with more label claims, an unexpected issue has arisen: shopper confusion. According to data from Label Insight, 67% of consumers … Read more
According to the Hartman Group, heart health is the leading concern for consumers when shopping for groceries. Their research indicates that 55% of U.S. consumers aim to avoid or reduce saturated fat in their diets, while nearly 40% seek to incorporate healthier fats, such as polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fats, instead. The response from manufacturers and … Read more
Consumer demand for the removal of artificial colors seems to be more complex than it appears. The challenge of eliminating ingredients like Red 40, Blue 1, and Yellow 6 becomes significant for manufacturers, especially if they are unable to replicate a recipe accurately without these additives. The trend of removing artificial colors has gained traction … Read more