Gluten-free, lactose free
While ‘all-natural’ and ’no additives & preservatives’ were still among the most popular food and drink label claims in the US last year, the fastest growth was in economy and low/no/reduced allergen claims, according to Mintel research published this month. The fastest growing label claims of 2011: From ‘economy’ to ‘gluten-free’
Meanwhile, on June 14 we learned that sales of lactose-free dairy products have doubled in the past five years. Self-diagnosed lactose intolerance driving lactose-free dairy sales - analyst
There was also news on the allergen management front, with the Canadian Celiac Association receiving a C$245,000 investment from the government to develop controls for gluten-free foods.
Canadian government invests in controls for gluten-free foods
Finally, Ben & Jerry’s learned about allergen controls - and labelling - the hard way after beginning a voluntary recall of its Chocolate Nougat Crunch Ice Cream in the US after discovering allergen advice was missing from packaging. Ben & Jerry’s ice cream recalled in US after allergy advice omission