Today’s manufacturers manage complex “clean” product offerings in several industries. In the food and beverage industry, clean ingredients must maintain the taste, texture, longevity, and competitive pricing of beloved consumer favorites. Tilley Distribution understands the unique value of clean label foods, skincare, and related goods, as well as the intricate formulation strategies that create an exciting product experience.
Find out what clean label means and how Tilley Distribution can elevate and expand your product line as your clean label ingredients distributor.
What Does Clean Label Mean?
There is no regulatory definition for “clean label,” although there are several generally accepted interpretations. Sometimes referred to as “simple labeling,” clean labeling means a product:
- Uses recognizable ingredients
- Uses as few ingredients as possible
- Is minimally processed
Some consumers also perceive non-GMO foods as clean label, though non-GMO does not necessarily meet all the criteria above.
Vitamin D, by Any Other Name
One of the underlying challenges of clean labeling is consumer education. For many, “recognizable” ingredients such as vitamin D become undecipherable science concepts when their actual names (in the case of vitamin D, cholecalciferol) are listed on packaging. Generally, clean label ingredients are perceived as less processed, simple, and healthier – whether that’s accurate or not – even if some of the words on the label aren’t widely recognized by consumers.
Are Clean Label Ingredient Claims Regulated?
Like the terms “natural” or “healthy,” clean labeling is not regulated by the FDA for cosmetics, though the FDA does have a definition for natural flavors, specifically. This is a topic of considerable debate among manufacturers, industry groups, and legislators. Tilley’s compliance team invests time and resources into monitoring these discussions and ensuring our advice and ingredients align with the latest interpretations.
Clean Label Certification
No regulatory body defines or approves the “clean label” designation; however, there are third-party organizations that test and certify clean label products.
Why the Shift to Clean Label Ingredients?
Manufacturers rely on clean label ingredients that replace traditional ingredients in consumer products without sacrificing taste, texture, or performance. Meeting consumer demand with cost-effective clean label solutions presents a growth opportunity for several key reasons.
- Margin protection: Clean label ingredients often replace volatile commodity-based ingredients, helping manufacturers manage pricing and make reliable projections.
- Functionality: Many functional starches offer superior freeze-thaw performance and shelf stability compared to traditional ingredients, especially when paired with appropriate emulsifiers.
Statistics on the Rapid Rise of Clean Labeling
The rapidly growing clean label ingredients market makes establishing guidelines increasingly important. The global market reached a valuation of $50.2 billion in 2024, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.7% projected through 2029. Health and wellness are top of mind among consumers, with 63% of consumers saying they’re paying more attention to food labels.
Reformulating for Clean Label
When creating a new clean label snack or reformulating an existing line, start by contacting an experienced clean label ingredients supplier with formulation expertise. Tilley Distribution offers technical support to design winning systems for any vertical or application. With deep expertise leveraging clean label bakery ingredients, plant-based proteins, and clean label chemical solutions for skincare, Tilley is your ideal partner.
Innovative Ingredient Solutions for Clean Label Foods
Tilley Distribution offers a range of clean ingredients for skincare, food and beverage, and other diverse applications. Experience the benefits of our in-house technical and formulation support and expansive supplier network. It’s an exciting time in functional, health-focused product design; start your project by contacting a Tilley representative today.
