Clean label foods: four health and environmental benefits

Health and environmental benefits of clean label foods

People worldwide are leaning toward a healthier, clean label natural lifestyle that is easier on the environment and their bodies. Nutritious, organic, and natural ingredients have become more in demand in recent years, resulting in new consumer initiatives, such as the clean label foods movement.

The Clean Label term and movement has been pushed by clients and promotes healthier foods, not only in whole foods but also distillates and extractions used in food flavoring and preservation. Food companies worldwide have recognized this need and are working to provide better, healthier options for all consumers.

Understanding the clean label movement

Over time, consumers have grown conscious of the presence of certain preservatives and non-natural additives that manufacturers use to enhance color, prolong shelf life, and intensify taste. This has triggered some discomfort, as many of these additional ingredients carry unintended health consequences – some of which remain not fully understood.
Given this situation, companies have shifted towards using ingredients that consumers can recognize, while also limiting the use of artificial ingredients and other chemicals. The Clean Label Movement advocates for simpler foods and more natural solutions for preservation and flavoring.

Nevertheless, the Clean Label Movement can also lead to some confusions, as the growing skepticism around the use of “chemicals” could make us believe that we are in front of an unhealthy substance instead of a natural one when going through an ingredient list. For example, who would think that “tocopherol” is actually Vitamin D? Or that “ascorbic acid” is the scientific term for “Vitamin C”? As we see, educating consumers on these very specific and technical terms is necessary to grow our social consciousness over clean foods.

Health and environmental benefits of clean label foods

Living longer with clean label foods

The path to a longer and healthier life can begin with dietary choices. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), a diet rich in whole, natural ingredients—free from excessive fat, salt, or sugar—can positively impact our bodies, ultimately extending one’s lifespan. This emphasizes the importance of adopting a clean label food regimen.

Boosting your immune system naturally

A clean, natural diet plays a crucial role in boosting your immune system. Surprisingly, even desserts with high sugar content can be healthier than processed foods. For instance, a European food company has unearthed a sweet protein in a particular truffle variety that serves as an all-natural sweetener for various foods. This innovation could supplant high-fructose corn syrup and other synthetic sweeteners, which have been linked to immune system problems.

Encouraging healthy habits

A clean label do not only enhance day-to-day nutrition but also lay the foundation for healthier exercise routines and increased energy levels. By curbing the consumption of non-nutrient-rich foods, you not only gain more vitality and energy for physical activities but also facilitate quicker post-workout recovery.

Reducing environmental impact

A significant benefit of clean label foods lies in their seasonal availability. By paying close attention to locally sourced products at your neighborhood supermarket, you can contribute to a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions associated with food transportation. This conscientious choice aligns with the broader goal of minimizing our ecological footprint.

Conclusion
The shift towards clean label foods and the associated health and environmental benefits is a collective endeavor. It requires joint efforts from both food companies and consumers alike to create a healthier, more sustainable food landscape. Embracing clean label foods isn’t just about personal well-being; it’s a step towards a brighter, greener future for our planet.