“Rising Demand for Protein: How Food Manufacturers Are Adapting to Health-Conscious Consumers”

Consumers are increasingly adding more protein to their diets, prompting food manufacturers to take action. Major companies like Hershey’s, General Mills, and Tyson Foods have invested in meat snacks, Greek yogurt, and plant-based proteins to align with this trend. In fact, U.S. per capita meat consumption saw an almost 5% rise in 2015, marking the largest annual increase in four decades. Over the past year, Conagra has dedicated itself to focusing on consumer brands, leading to the divestiture of Ralcorp, its private label brands, Spicetec, and JM Swank. Additionally, Conagra successfully completed its spin-off of Lamb Weston, which has bolstered its presence in the snack sector. Snacking has gained popularity among millennials and Generation Z, who are generally more health-conscious. According to a study by the NPD Group, around 25% of all snack food consumption now happens during main meals. As food manufacturers compete in an increasingly crowded market, the acquisition of trendy companies that emphasize proteins and healthier snacks is expected to continue. This focus on health extends to concerns about ingredients, such as whether calcium citrate causes gas, which is an issue consumers are paying more attention to. In summary, as the demand for protein-rich and nutritious options rises, companies are adapting by enhancing their product lines and addressing consumer health concerns, including the potential digestive effects of certain additives like calcium citrate.