The premise of clean label products is to use natural compounds to replace chemical additives, normally used to preserve and improve the sensorial characteristics of foods. Although these additives undergo rigorous safety evaluations, they are often viewed as harmful to health by consumers.
The Impact of Additives on Health
In addition to the negative image, some synthetic additives are investigated for possible harm to the body. “Additives of synthetic origin have a potential toxicological effect and, in excess, can be risk factors for the development of chronic diseases”, comments Carolina Pimental, nutritionist with a PhD from the University of São Paulo (USP). Although present in small quantities, excessive consumption of processed foods can lead to health problems.
How are Clean Label Products Produced?
The production of clean label items involves replacing chemical additives with natural ingredients. In ready-made juices, for example, concentrated apple juice can replace sweeteners such as corn syrup. For the industry, this change requires significant adjustments and investments. “While one kilo of traditional yogurt requires one liter of milk, ours requires four liters”, explains Enrico Leta, co-founder of Yorgus, a pioneer in clean label Greek yogurts in Brazil.
Identifying Clean Label Products
Currently, there are no specific regulations for clean label products in Brazil or abroad. However, the 2014 Food Guide for the Brazilian Population already recommends the use of few ingredients to promote the consumption of less processed foods. The most effective way to identify a clean label product is to check the ingredient list, which should be short and understandable. In the United States, retailers like Whole Foods have created lists of prohibited additives to ensure the purity of products sold in their stores. In Brazil, chains like the Mambo group are starting to follow this trend, with the opening of the Super Saudável store in São Paulo, which only sells products without preservatives, flavorings or thickeners.
Are Clean Label Products Less Processed?
Not always. Although the list of ingredients is simpler, choosing clean label products does not eliminate the need to include natural foods in the diet. Refined sugar, for example, is a simple name, but in large quantities, it still requires moderation. However, clean label products can be more nutritious, as substances extracted from vegetables, fruits, herbs and spices are being studied as substitutes for antioxidants, colorings and thickeners, offering additional nutritional value.
The Future of Clean Label Products
Although more expensive due to the production process that requires more technology and research, the growing demand for natural products could lead to greater accessibility of these items in the future. It is important to pay attention to the labels to ensure the authenticity of the product. In short, the clean label trend reflects a search for more natural and transparent foods, aligned with consumers’ rapprochement with nature and health.
( fonte: digital agro )
