WhiteWave to remove ingredient from Horizon, Silk products in response to customer feedback

WhiteWave Foods says it will remove an ingredient from Horizon milks and Silk beverages in response to customer feedback.

Carrageenan, a seaweed extract that is used as a thickener and emulsifier, will be phased out from Horizon and Silk products over time, said Sara Loveday, a company spokeswoman. The ingredient has been the subject of criticism in some circles, with food advocates pointing to animal studies that suggest it causes gastrointestinal inflammation and other problems.

Loveday says WhiteWave still thinks carrageenan is safe, but decided to remove it because customer feedback has been so strong.

It's just the latest example of a food maker removing an ingredient customers found objectionable. Regardless of whether an ingredient is safe, food makers are finding themselves under pressure from growing customer sensitivities about ingredients.