Consumers are increasingly interested in the background and origins of the products they buy. This is particularly true as they become more proactive about their health and well-being and seek ways to improve their eating habits.
As an example, FMCG Gurus’ consumer insights reveal that 60% of global consumers find 'free from artificial ingredients' important when purchasing food and drink.
Therefore, it is crucial for brands to prioritise transparency in providing accurate nutritional information rather than resorting to misleading tactics.
Consumers Value Storytelling
Clean label, at its core, encompasses consumers' desire for natural products while prioritising transparency in the formulation and sourcing of ingredients.
This transparency enables consumers to make informed decisions regarding the validity of natural claims, which can be subjective and open to interpretation.
In response, brands must effectively communicate their stories in a transparent manner through marketing efforts. This entails highlighting the sourcing of ingredients, the formulation of products, and emphasising green and clean practices throughout the supply chain.
By doing so, brands can establish an authentic identity and foster a stronger connection with consumers.
A Win-Win for Consumers
While consumers are increasingly aware of environmental issues, it's important not to assume that they are entirely altruistic in their purchasing behaviour.
In other words, consumers are unlikely to buy environmentally friendly products if they perceive a trade-off, especially if these products come at a higher price. Therefore, any product formulation that aims to promote its environmental benefits should also emphasise the personal benefits, such as better quality and nutritional value.
For instance, of consumers who say it is 'important that food and drinks are natural', 60% believe this is because they are 'healthier', 49% deem natural products to be 'better quality', and 62% deem these products 'better for the environment'.
FMCG Gurus' findings demonstrate that if products meet multiple need states, this will help consumers see the value in choosing environmentally friendly options without feeling like they have to make sacrifices.
The Expansion of Smart Production
Consumers are increasingly paying close attention to ingredient lists, placing a greater emphasis on the authenticity of the food and beverages they buy.
This is driven by their desire for reassurance that the products they consume are not harmful to themselves or the environment, particularly as they make connections between wellness and sustainability. Consequently, it is crucial for brands and producers, regardless of their scale, to adopt the concept of 'smart production'.
Smart production involves embracing regenerative farming techniques that are beneficial for both the environment and individuals, including the producers themselves, as they ensure a positive impact across all these areas.
FMCG Gurus’ market research highlights that 80% of global consumers say they would trust a company more if they were using regenerative farming.
Read More: Top Food And Drink Trends To Look Out For In 2024: FMCG Gurus
Article by Kate Kehoe, marketing executive at FMCG Gurus. This article is based on FMCG Gurus: What’s New for Clean Label in 2023 – contact [email protected] to find out more.
