Going Au Naturel?

摘要

Just when we thought "natural" foods and the concern over artificial ingredients and additives/preservatives were about to go the route of love beads and California co-ops, it appears this trend is coming full circle. Look for natural products to flourish, driven by consumers' desire for "fresh" foods, the switch to positive eating, and the undercurrent of quasi-vegetarianism and food allergies. Clearly, both the labeling term and the image of natural—ralthough somewhat redefined by consumers since the '80s—will be an important criteria for mainstream food products in the years to come. Industry giants such as the Campbell Soup Company, Pillsbury/Green Giant, and Kraft Foods are among the major players who have either acquired or developed new businesses targeting natural products.