Two thirds of European, Asian, American and Brazilian consumers “attach great importance to a healthy and natural choice of food products,” according to new research.
The survey from GNT also found that between 20% and 35% of consumers in France, Germany, Poland, Spain, the UK and the US “explicitly look for natural ingredients in the products they buy,” the research added.
And more than 70% of respondents in Asia and South America are concerned with natural food and ingredients, but a well-balanced diet can often be compromised due to a lack of time or information.
The “study provides valuable insights into consumers’ perceptions of food and related purchase behaviour,” the study’s authors claimed.
GNT managing director Paul Collins said: “Consumers all around the world are increasingly conscious of the use of certain food additives. Whether it is about colours, flavours or preservatives – the call for natural alternatives is getting louder and wider. With our global consumer study, we want to unveil the true scope of this trend and help food manufacturers understand the demands of today’s consumers in detail.
“Combining the study’s comprehensive findings with our unique and longstanding experience in the field of natural colour solutions, we can support our clients with all the knowhow that is necessary for them to benefit from the changing demands of consumers worldwide.
“Considering the joint significance of all consumer groups that are concerned with their diet, our study clearly demonstrates that times are over when consumers purchase and consume food products without due regard to what they contain and how they are produced. There is a major and global interest in healthy and natural food and ingredients – it just takes different forms around the world, but nevertheless is converging to a common understanding.
“Food manufacturers have to follow suit and enable consumers to easily find healthy products that satisfy their needs. As pioneers in the field of using fruit and vegetable to deliver colour, we are glad to share our insights with our customers to help them develop colourful and exciting food and beverages that meet today’s consumer demands and are future proof.”
© FoodBev Media Ltd 2024