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Conagra Brands to Achieve Milestone in Frozen Portfolio Modernization

In a significant move that highlights its commitment to meeting consumer demands, Conagra Brands, Inc. (NYSE: CAG) announced that it is on track to complete the removal of certified Food, Drug, and Cosmetic (FDC) colors from its frozen product lineup by the end of 2025. This announcement marks a pivotal milestone in Conagra's long-term strategy to modernize its food offerings, tailoring them to evolving consumer preferences.

A Modernization Strategy That Resonates with Consumers

Under the leadership of Tom McGough, the executive vice president and chief operating officer, Conagra is focusing on aligning its products with current consumer expectations. "Conagra Brands is known for innovating delicious, on-trend foods, and our transition away from FDC colors is just one aspect of our broader strategy to modernize our portfolio to align with consumer preferences," stated McGough. This transition is particularly pertinent as health-conscious consumers increasingly favor products that are free from artificial ingredients and additives.

The targeted brands, which include popular names such as Birds Eye, Healthy Choice, and Marie Callender's, will be entirely free of FDC colors by the end of 2025. This move not only reflects a shift in consumer trends towards healthier eating but also marks an important step in Conagra's initiative to cater to the nutritional preferences of its diverse customer base.

Additional Efforts Towards Portfolio Modernization

Beyond the removal of FDC colors from its frozen offerings, Conagra Brands has broader modernization efforts aimed at its entire U.S. retail product range. Starting with the 2026-2027 school year, the company plans to refrain from offering any products containing FDC colors to K-12 schools, aligning with a growing trend of healthier eating in educational settings. Moreover, it aims to entirely eliminate the use of FDC colors in the manufacturing of products from its U.S. retail portfolio by the end of 2027.

Understanding Consumer Needs and Interests

With over a century of operational history, Conagra has shown a keen ability to adapt to consumer shifts and preferences. This latest initiative was driven by insights into what food means to their customers today. Consumers are increasingly looking for food options that not only cater to their health and wellness goals but also fit into their busy lifestyles, offering them convenience without sacrificing nutrition.

Brands such as Birds Eye® offer innovative frozen vegetable choices that align well with these needs, while Healthy Choice® provides a variety of meal options that are not only nutritious but also align with popular dietary trends. The launch of the "On Track" badge on select Healthy Choice products earlier this year is a perfect example of this: products with this badge are high in protein, lower in calories, and a good source of fiber, indicating a movement towards nutrient-dense offerings, often called "GLP-1 friendly".

Commitment to Quality and Diversity

Conagra Brands remains dedicated to providing a diverse range of products to meet varying nutritional needs. Their portfolio includes not only traditional food items but also caters to modern dietary trends with vegan options from Gardein® and Purple Carrot®, gluten-free choices from UDI's® and Glutino®, and nutritious vegetable offerings through Hunts® and Rotel® tomatoes, as well as Rosarita® and Ranch-Style® beans.

In conclusion, Conagra's forward-thinking approach points towards a pivotal moment in food innovation and modernization. As consumers continue to evolve their eating habits, Conagra Brands is poised to respond, all while maintaining its commitment to quality, variety, and consumer health. With plans set for the future, the company promises to keep providing foods that resonate with the increasingly health-conscious market.

To discover more about Conagra Brands and their innovative journey, visit www.conagrabrands.com.