Category
Lifestyle
Assisted Choices
Trend cluster
Category
Nitrate-Free
Meat products prioritize nitrate reduction as a marketing tool.
1.6
Trend score
Trend
What is the Nitrate-Free trend?
Nitrate-Free: Added nitrates tend to be commonplace in the manufacturing process of various cured meats, which is why brands are now specifically setting themselves apart by going nitrate-free. Aside from the clear health benefits of reduced additives in the processing of these foods, this shift offers a clear point of distinction that can easily be used as a selling point — targeted most specifically at the more reluctant, health-conscious consumer.
Trend themes
Themes within the Nitrate-Free trend
Three behaviours holding the trend together01
Nitrate-Free
Brands are now specifically setting themselves apart by going nitrate-free.
02
Natural, Paleo-friendly and Antibiotic-free Meat Products
A growing number of consumers are looking for products that are healthier alternatives to their favored foods rather than avoid them altogether.
03
Protein-Focused Meat Snacks
Consumers seek out ways to stave off hunger and avoid carbs through meat snacks.
Industry implications
What the Nitrate-Free trend means for industry
Where the trend changes the playbookFor
Food Industry
Manufacturers involved in food processing and packaging can take a cue from nitrate-free and clean-label values.
For
Health & Wellness Industry
Brands and companies focused on offering clean, healthy products to consumers.
For
E-commerce Industry
Increased demand for high-protein meat snacks is creating a new opportunity for an e-commerce trade with a range of delivery services.
Workshop question
How can your brand rid itself from industry traditions or norms that could be holding it back?
Trend signals
Trend signals for Nitrate-Free
Trend score 1.6 out of 10, from popularity 20%, activity 20%, freshness 8%.
Popularity20%
Activity20%
Freshness8%
Audience
50%Men
50%Women
- Gen Alpha
- Gen Z
- Millennial
- Gen X
- Boomer
Market
North America
Europe
Asia-Pacific
Evidence
Examples of the Nitrate-Free trend
5 featured examples from Feb 10, 2017 to Jan 24, 2018CategoryLifestyle
Antibiotic-Free Uncured Meats
The Columbus Craft Meats Uncured Pepperoni and Salami are Savory
The meat processing industry can explore new production methods to offer antibiotic-free and nitrate-free products like the Columbus Craft Meats.
CategoryLifestyle
Nitrate-Free Jerky Snacks
The Chefs Cut Real Jerky Co. Mini Sticks Contain Seven Grams of Protein
Disruptive innovation opportunity: Continue to evolve and expand the meat snack sector with new products and flavor profiles to meet the increasing demand for convenient and prote…
CategoryLifestyle
Uncured Turkey Snacks
Ferndale Market's Turkey Strips Offers a Healthy Alternative to Salty Jerky
Opportunity for meat snack brands to create healthier products using natural ingredients and no added preservatives.
CategoryLifestyle
Boozy Artisan Meat Snacks
The Three Jerks Filet Mignon Maple Bourbon Churro Jerky is Savory
As the popularity of meat snacks continues to rise, brands can differentiate themselves by offering premium, gourmet options with unique flavors and packaging.
CategoryLifestyle
Uncured Sugar-Free Bacon
The Applegate Naturals No Sugar Bacon is Paleo-Friendly
Food companies can invest in sustainable meat production methods and develop innovative new products to meet the demand for healthier, more natural food options.
