In an era where health and environmental awareness are at the forefront of consumer minds, the demand for more nutritious, sustainable food options has never been higher. Over the last five decades, a significant shift in consumer behavior has highlighted a growing concern for the impact of food choices on personal health and the environment. People want healthy snack alternatives.
Added Sugars: Too Much of a Sweet Thing
According to the USDA’s Dietary Guidelines for Americans, added sugars should be limited to no more than 10% of daily calories. Added sugar refers to sugars incorporated into the recipe beyond those naturally occurring in the ingredients, such as fruits or grains. While granola can be a healthy snack, consumers may be surprised that bars and clusters are packed with highly-refined sugary syrups. While they provide sweetness and binding, these added sugars also increase the calorie content without providing significant nutritional benefits. Familiar sources of added sugars include corn syrup, honey, maple syrup, brown rice syrup and cane sugar. Over time, excessive intake of added sugars can lead to health issues such as obesity, type 2 diabetes and heart disease.
Today’s consumers, especially younger generations and an aging population that requires nutrient-dense foods, are actively seeking healthier options. This shift towards a more health-conscious lifestyle has increased the demand for functional foods that not only meet nutritional needs but also support an active lifestyle. Clean label products, characterized by their simple and recognizable ingredient lists, have emerged as one of the top food trends of the decade. They offer a transparent alternative to products laden with artificial ingredients and heavily refined substances.
Paragon Pure’s Wholegrain Solution: SproutedByNature™
In response to this growing need for healthy snack alternatives, Paragon Pure has introduced SproutedByNature, a wholegrain rice flour that serves as a natural, 1:1 replacement for common food additives like tapioca and corn syrup. Used for binding and bulking, SproutedByNature is a testament to the possibilities of innovation in the clean label space. For the first time, wholegrain granola can be paired with a wholegrain binding system. Why refine grain into sugar syrups and strip away nutrients when it can be left whole?
While not sweet itself, SproutedByNature offers a path toward reducing added sugars in the diet. When used alone or in combination with natural sweeteners, it can help create healthier, lower-sugar alternatives without compromising on texture or taste. This approach aligns with the growing consumer demand for products that are not only less processed but also supportive of a healthier lifestyle.
Consumer Insights: A Shift Towards Healthy Snack Alternatives
Recent reports from FMCG Gurus highlight the significant impact of health and sustainability trends on consumer behavior:
- 56% of global consumers switched from traditional snacks to high protein/low sugar alternatives in the previous 12 months.
- 66% became more attentive to ingredient listings on food and drink products over the same period.
- In North America, 76% expressed concern about ingredients that sounded chemical.
These statistics underscore a global shift towards products that are perceived as healthier and more sustainable.
The Process and Benefits of SproutedByNature
SproutedByNature begins with wholegrain rice sourced from U.S. farmers, utilizing either organic or conventional non-GMO crops. The flour is produced through a process that involves precision sprouting technology and milling, without removing the whole grain or inclusion of additives. This results in a clean label, readily soluble flour that can be used in a variety of food and beverage applications. Its low sugar content, high fiber, and enhanced nutrient profile make it an attractive option for health-conscious consumers.
Additionally, the manufacturing process of SproutedByNature generates significantly less waste and greenhouse gas emissions compared to maltodextrin and dried syrups, which discard bran as a byproduct. Its physical properties, such as high solubility, low viscosity, natural off-white color and mild flavor, along with reduced shipping weight, offer practical advantages in food production and distribution.
Culinary Application: Cranberry Coconut Granola Clusters
SproutedByNature rice flour showcases its versatility in a delicious recipe for cranberry coconut granola clusters. This recipe combines wholesome ingredients like rolled oats, almonds and dried cranberries with SproutedByNature for a nutritious snack. The granola clusters not only taste great but also offer the nutritional benefits of a low sugar, high fiber diet, with the added gift of GABA – a non-protein amino acid known for its positive effects on brain function and blood pressure regulation.
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The emergence of clean label trends and the innovative solutions provided by companies like Paragon Pure reflect a broader movement towards health and sustainability in the food industry. As consumers continue to prioritize their health and the environment, the demand for simple, nutritious and eco-friendly food options is set to grow. SproutedByNature represents a significant step forward in meeting these needs, offering a versatile, nutritious ingredient that aligns with the values of today’s health-conscious consumer. To learn more about our plant-based, sustainable food ingredients or to receive samples, contact Paragon Pure: info@paragonpure.com.