As food companies grapple with rising input costs, particularly for oils and fats, they are increasingly focusing on health and convenience to appeal to consumers, a leading data and analytics company said.
“Despite economic pressures from inflation, there is an increase in consumer focus on healthy foods,” said Bokkala Parthasaradhi Reddy, lead consumer analyst at GlobalData, in a statement.
“The World Health Organization (WHO) has linked processed foods, especially ultra-processed foods, along with tobacco and alcohol, as contributing to global health issues and the death of millions,” said Reddy.
Deepak Nautiyal, consumer and retail commercial director, APAC and ME, at GlobalData, said food innovation is gravitating to healthy and convenient products as companies try to align their products to consumers’ health goals and busy lifestyles.
He cited Mission’s Protein Wholemeal Wraps launched in Singapore and Malaysia as an example. “Boasting plant-based protein, these wraps offer a sustained energy boost and are fiber-rich,” Nautiyal said. “Catering to various dietary preferences, they are vegan, vegetarian, halal, and free from artificial flavors and added sugar.”
A GlobalData consumer survey showed that 55 percent of respondents were extremely or quite concerned about their personal financial situation, while 49 percent were extremely or quite concerned about their physical fitness and health.
“Consumers are equally concerned about their personal financial situation and health,” Reddy said.
The survey also found that 85 percent of respondents considered time-saving and easy-to-use [convenient] traits as essential or nice-to-have features in products.
“Aligning to the preference for convenient products, CJ Foods Korasa launched Yangnyeom Chicken, a Korean Fried Chicken variant in Indonesia, seasoned with a sweet and sour sauce,” Nautiyal said. “The product is halal certified and targets consumers seeking convenient, flavorful halal options inspired by Korean cuisine for easy meal solutions.”
“Health trends and busy lifestyles are reshaping consumer preferences in the packaged food market,” Reddy said. “As more individuals embrace active routines, there is an increased focus on products that support wellness and provide functional benefits.”
