Arla develops healthier confectionery

Arla Foods Ingredients has developed a set of protein and calcium rich snacking solutions for children that offer a healthier alternative to chocolate bars and other popular children’s snacks.

According to research, snacks now account for approximately one-quarter of the calories American children consume. In tandem with this, there is growing concern over obesity rates among children, which means the role of snacking in their diets is now under greater scrutiny than ever before.

To enable manufacturers to create healthier, tastier snacks for children, Arla Foods has launched a selection of new product application solutions. All have been benchmarked against existing children’s snacks options to ensure they represent a superior option in terms of improved nutrition.

Included in the range is a 35g dairy bar that offers as much calcium per serving as in one glass of milk, with 20% protein and is low in calories. Benchmarked against a typical chocolate bar, it contains one-third less energy and, since more of the calories come from protein, energy release in the body is optimised.

The snacking range includes a yogurt bar, a healthier dessert, a carbonised drinking yogurt and a snack cake with less than 100 calories per serving.

Kasia Lindegaard, customer marketing manager at Arla Foods, says, “When they are given the choice, most kids will choose snacks that are fatty and sugary because they prefer the taste. The challenge for parents, therefore, is to buy and offer them healthier products they will still enjoy but which are better for them. For food manufacturers, this presents an excellent opportunity to meet a clear need in the market. Now, with these new dairy-based kids’ snacking solutions, there is an easy way to develop new products that will appeal to both parents and children.”

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