funky ironing board cover_kitchen table cover

More than 80% of Americans regularly have shelf-stable, canned or other packaged foods on hand in their pantries, according to another IFIC survey last year. Even for those adhering to clean-label diets, it's difficult to avoid all unfamiliar food additives.

Conclusion

However, the use of stabilizing agents has not been without controversy. As consumers become more health-conscious, there is a growing demand for clean-label products—those that contain fewer synthetic ingredients and additives. This trend has prompted food manufacturers to explore natural stabilizing agents, such as those derived from plant sources, which can provide similar functions while aligning with consumer preferences for transparency and health.

However, the use of fertilizers must be managed carefully to avoid environmental issues. Over-reliance on inorganic fertilizers can lead to soil degradation, water pollution, and nutrient runoff, which negatively impact ecosystems and biodiversity. Therefore, sustainable practices such as integrated nutrient management and precision agriculture are gaining popularity. These approaches encourage the use of organic fertilizers in conjunction with inorganic ones, allowing for efficient nutrient delivery while minimizing negative environmental effects.