Dive Brief:
- The Schwan Food Company is removing four ingredient groups from its food portfolio. The company will eliminate partially hydrogenated oils (PHOs) and artificial dyes by the end of 2015. The company will get rid of all high-fructose corn syrup by the end of 2016 and artificial flavors by the end of 2017.
- The company plans to take these ingredients out of all foods made by Schwan’s Global Supply Chain, Inc. and sold by all subsidiaries, including Schwan’s Home Service, Inc., Schwan’s Consumer Brands, Inc. and Schwan’s Food Service, Inc.
- According to the company press release, "The ingredient simplicity initiative is a continuation of the company’s focus on providing foods that meet a variety of consumer needs, including certified gluten free, certified organic, no sugar added, low sodium, low calorie, vegetarian and heart-healthy options."
Dive Insight:
Schwan is the latest company to announce removing ingredients that don't fit the "clean label" consumers are demanding. Schwan joins companies like General Mills, Kellogg and Nestle that have announced removal of artificial flavors and colors from products.
Removal of PHOs follows the FDA decision to change these substances from GRAS to food additives that require approval for use.