Nearly 23 percent of all new food and beverage products introduced globally in 2008 claimed to be "natural," according to a recent British study. Words such as "no additives/preservatives," "organic," and "wholegrain" were included in the "natural" nomenclature. This suggests that "food manufacturers realize that natural and pure have become healthy eating ideals, as people look for holistic, genuine nutrition they can trust." Surprisingly, "although convenience and the environment are popular talking points today, these benefits did not receive anywhere near the same level of attention as 'natural' claims did" last year.
Source: Foodanddrinkeurope.com