Tate & Lyle has published a novel report highlighting the importance of considering nutrition when manufacturing convenience foods.
The global food ingredient solutions provider released 'Enhanced eating: A healthier future for convenience food', which delves into the consumer urge to gain further nutrtion from convenience foods.
It also looks into a range of technical solutions that can be used to boost the nutritional profile of convenience food items.
This can be achieved by adding vitamins, minerals, fibres and proteins to food, according to the company.
Consumer preference shifts towards quality, not price
Researchers in the industry have also identified the importance of high-quality ingredients as a main consumer desire, as well as value for money — which goes beyond price.
Almost half (48%) of consumers would consider a product to be of good value if it has corresponding health benefits, or is made with natural ingredients.1
According to the company, boosting the nutritional profile of their convenience foods offers as an opportunity for manufacturers grow profit margins and boost their market share.
Kerstin Werner, the Category Development Manager for Soups, Sauces and Dressings at Tate & Lyle, commented: “Our research shows us that value for money remains very important to consumers, but that the concept of value is evolving. That’s why we refer to “Enhanced Eating”, which means choosing foods that are more nutritious.
“Today’s consumers know that what they eat can have a big impact on how healthy they are and how they feel. That’s why they are prioritising products made with high-quality, healthier ingredients that deliver a balance of taste, texture and nutrition. That means more than just taking out salt and sugar and adding in more nutrition; it’s also about building a narrative around a product that connects with consumers.”
The report also details the impact of labelling and how it's impacting buying decisions — including nutritional rating systems like the Nutri-Score and the non-HFSS system in the UK.
“The convenience food category is incredibly diverse. Across the category, there is an exciting opportunity to innovate and incorporate all the nutritional rewards that consumers are now looking for." Werner added.
Reference
1 Kantar Profiles / Mintel, August 2022