Savoury Snack Industry Turns to Plant-Based Antioxidants as Consumers Reject Synthetics

Food safety and transparency are now at the forefront of consumer expectations, especially in the snack industry. As awareness grows about the potential health risks of synthetic antioxidants such as TBHQ, BHA, and BHT, shoppers are increasingly scrutinising food labels and making more informed choices. This shift in consumer behaviour is driving a rapid transition towards plant-based antioxidants, with innovative solutions like AO17 emerging as the clear winners for both manufacturers and health-conscious snack lovers.

The Consumer Push for Clean Labels

Today’s consumers are more educated than ever about what goes into their food. Ingredient lists are no longer glanced over; they are carefully read and assessed. Synthetic antioxidants, once widely used to extend the shelf life of frying oils, are now red flags for many shoppers. The presence of TBHQ, BHA, or BHT on a snack label can prompt consumers to put the product back on the shelf in favour of alternatives that use natural ingredients.

This trend is reinforced by mounting scientific evidence and regulatory actions. Studies have linked these synthetic additives to toxicity and possible carcinogenic effects, particularly with long-term or excessive consumption. As a result, many countries, including those in Europe and Japan, have banned or severely restricted their use in food products, especially in frying oils for snacks. Multinational food companies have responded by reformulating products for these markets, often using plant-based antioxidants instead.

The Rise of Plant-Based Antioxidants

Natural antioxidants, such as tocopherols (vitamin E) and ascorbic acid (vitamin C), are increasingly preferred not only for their safety profile but also for their effectiveness. These compounds, found abundantly in fruits, vegetables, grains, and seeds, act as free-radical scavengers, protecting oils and foods from oxidative damage even at high frying temperatures. Unlike their synthetic counterparts, natural antioxidants do not degrade into potentially harmful by-products during cooking and are well-accepted by both regulators and consumers.

Research highlights that plant-based antioxidants can extend the shelf life of snacks and oils just as effectively as synthetics, while also enhancing the nutritional value of the final product. They are often associated with additional health benefits, including reduced risk of chronic diseases, thanks to their presence in whole foods and their role in combating oxidative stress in the body.

AO17: A Prasan Solutions Innovation

AO17, developed by Prasan Solutions, is a next-generation, plant-based antioxidant specifically designed to meet the demands of modern snack production. Its formulation, based on tocopherol and ascorbic acid, is 100% natural and approved by food safety authorities, making it a safe and sustainable replacement for TBHQ, BHA, and BHT.

For manufacturers, AO17 offers a straightforward solution: it is easy to use, requires no special handling, and delivers reliable protection against oil oxidation during high-temperature frying. This means longer-lasting, fresher-tasting snacks, reduced oil waste, and lower operational costs. For consumers, AO17 ensures that the snacks they enjoy are free from controversial synthetic additives, aligning perfectly with the clean-label movement.

As a leader in clean-label ingredient innovation, Prasan Solutions is committed to driving the food industry toward safer, healthier, and more sustainable practices. AO17 is a reflection of this mission, combining cutting-edge science with natural integrity.

The Future of Snack Foods

As more consumers read labels and demand transparency, the snack industry is rapidly moving away from synthetic antioxidants. Plant-based solutions like AO17 are not just a trend-they are setting a new standard for safety, quality, and consumer trust. By choosing snacks made with natural antioxidants, shoppers are supporting a healthier food system and encouraging manufacturers to adopt safer, more sustainable practices.

In this new landscape, AO17 by Prasan Solutions is leading the way—proving that it is possible to enjoy delicious, crispy snacks without compromising on health or peace of mind.