Minn.-Based Schwan To Cut High-Fructose Corn Syrup

MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) – The Minnesota-based frozen food company Schwan is simplifying its food, cutting ingredients like artificial flavors and high-fructose corn syrup.

In a press release, the company said the changes come as the company strives to meet the health expectations of consumers.

"As a frozen-food leader, we are committed to offering quality foods made with the same recognizable ingredients you would find in your pantry," said Dimitrios Smyrnios, the company's CEO.

In total, the company behind Red Baron pizzas and Pagoda snacks is eliminating four ingredient groups: partially hydrogenated oils and artificial trans fats, artificial dyes, high-fructose corn syrup, and artificial flavors.

While some of these ingredients have already been phased out of certain products, the company says it seeks to eliminate all ingredients listed above by the end of 2017.

Schwan says its customers are continually looking for choices that align with healthy lifestyles. These include products certified as gluten free, organic, vegetarian, heart-healthy, low sodium, low calorie and no sugar added.

Schwan is based out of Marshall, and it employs 14,000 people throughout the nation.