Clean label products set to ‘dominate’ food and drink portfolios within two years

This is up from 52% in 2021, with the rise reflecting the fact that a growing number of consumers are demanding transparency and simplicity from the ingredients that make up their food.

The proprietary study was conducted in partnership with Clear Seas Research, and found that 99% of European manufacturers see clean label products as essential to their business strategy moving forward.

Meanwhile, 87% are already incorporating these ingredients into their products.

The study also demonstrated that the adoption of clean label strategies is linked to higher product quality, a more positive brand reputation and attractiveness to new customers.

Named ATLAS, the study was commissioned by global ingredients solutions company Ingredion, which serves customers in more than 120 countries.

‘Clean label ingredients are driving business growth’

Commenting on the results, senior marketing manager at Ingredion Constantin Drapatz said it was exciting to see that clean label products were becoming an ever-increasing part of food and drink manufacturer’s strategy.

"More than half of manufacturers reporting increased revenue and margins without raising prices,”​ Drapatz added.

“For more than a decade our ATLAS research confirms the consumer´s desire for transparency and healthier eating. We are very proud of this research; our company is not named when conducting surveys and customers around the world have given us confidence in our results by re-confirming insights.​

“It's evident that clean label and nutrition profile are not just consumer preferences but are driving business growth.”​

Some of the trends highlighted by the study include the shift towards sugar and calorie reduced products, as well as food and drink items that possess ingredients with natural origins.

“This shift meets the demand for healthier options and also marks a broader trend towards health and wellness, highlighting the critical role of ingredient selection in future food and beverage offerings,”​ continued Drapatz.

"The results represent a continuum post-COVID 19. During the pandemic there was a boost of consumer´s choice of products with labels and ingredient lists in line with their values and perception of health.​

“Despite the more challenging economic environment, the industry has expanded their focus and relevance of clean label in their business. By focusing on ingredients that are recognisable and part of a short ingredients list, manufacturers can tap into a growing market segment that values both transparency and quality.”​

In other news, a mushroom producer has been fined £73,333 after an employee’s leg became trapped in a machine and was later amputated.​​