A new wave of decade-spanning research from Ingredion states that clean label products are set to dominate portfolios within the next two years, making up over 70 percent — up from 52 percent in 2021.

The rise supports consumer preference for transparency and simplicity in ingredients, which is a key trend across the European food and beverage industry today.

The proprietary study, named ATLAS, was conducted in partnership with Clear Seas Research. It also found that 99 percent of European manufacturers see clean label products as essential to their business strategy, with 87 percent already incorporating these into their products. This reflects the industry’s commitment to transparency and simplicity in ingredients, in line with increasing consumer demand for recognisable ingredients.

Constantin Drapatz, Senior Marketing Manager – Clean & Simple Food Ingredients at Ingredion, said: “It is exciting to see the overwhelming response from food manufacturers, making clean label part of their business strategy with more than half of manufacturers reporting increased revenue and margins without raising prices. 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 labels and nutrition profiles are not just consumer preferences but are driving business growth.

“The industry’s increasing move towards sugar reduction, especially through low-calorie natural-origin sweeteners, aligns with the health-conscious consumer base and fosters innovation in product development. 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.”

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

Drapatz added: “The results represent a continuum post-COVID-19. During the pandemic, there was a boost in 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 labels in their business. By focusing on ingredients that are recognisable and part of a short ingredient list, manufacturers can tap into a growing market segment that values both transparency and quality.”

“This approach responds directly to the consumer desire for cleaner labels and presents an opportunity for brands to differentiate themselves in a competitive market — and shows how manufacturers are actively contributing to a healthier food ecosystem.”

Ingredion’s insights offer a comprehensive blueprint for food and beverage manufacturers aiming to align with the evolving consumer preferences towards clean-label and sugar-reduced products. As the industry moves forward, these strategies will not only meet consumer demands but also drive innovation and growth within the sector.

To learn more about Ingredion’s clean label and sugar reduction expertise, please visit www.ingredion.com.

*All data obtained via Ingredion proprietary research, ATLAS data, 2023

About Ingredion 

Ingredion Incorporated (NYSE: INGR), headquartered in the suburbs of Chicago, is a leading global ingredient solutions provider serving customers in more than 120 countries. With 2022 annual net sales of $7.9 billion, the company turns grains, fruits, vegetables, and other plant-based materials into value-added ingredient solutions for the food, beverage, animal nutrition, brewing, and industrial markets. With Ingredion Idea Labs^® innovation centres around the world and approximately 12,000 employees, the company co-creates with customers and fulfils its purpose of bringing the potential of people, nature, and technology together to make life better. Visit ingredion.com for more information and the latest company news.