Consumers are increasingly seeking new products that include “free-from” claims. Interestingly, many food advertising campaigns feature messages that focus on the ingredients that are NOT contained in the products, rather than those that are.
Industry intelligence experts and ingredient manufacturers have consistently reported this growth trend over the past couple of years and it’s further confirmed in the latest reports from Mintel which show a continuing increase in gluten-free food sales, particularly for energy bars and snacks. According to SPINS data, the sales of shelf-stable chips, pretzels and snacks labeled gluten-free grew 26 percent from 2015 to 2016; and the next-highest snack and bakery growth category was wellness bars and gels, which are up over 25 percent.
“We’re seeing a more ‘preventative’ mindset developing among shoppers, which means they want to make every bite nutritional as well as enjoyable. To take advantage of that mind shift, bakers should look to the nutritional profile as well as the flavor profile of pulses, ancient grains and seeds. Adding these items to your formulation can boost protein and fiber counts while adding unique flavors.” says Chris Krenzel, Sales Director at Firebird Artisan Mills, a certified gluten-free mill.
“Weekend breakfast breads using reduced sugar, or natural sugar sources like fruits and honey, allow consumers to indulge responsibly. We’re also starting to see an increase in allergen-free bread and high protein breads for breakfast.
As the demand for “free-from” products continues to grow, it’s important for bakers and snack manufacturers to develop products that satisfy this demand,” Krenzel added.
Firebird Artisan Mills’ offers a complete line of gluten-free flours and mixes that are ideal for the “free-from” formulations that consumers are seeking, and their portfolio includes more than 40 different gluten-free flours and blends, including ancient grains, pulses and starches.
Skidmore offers gluten free products in nearly all of our 70 product categories. To learn more about our gluten-free offerings, download our overview brochure.
Please contact your Skidmore representative for product samples or additional information.
