Hourly restaurant workers are facing severe financial strain as new survey data shows widespread stress, skipped meals and reliance on costly stopgap measures. Experts warn operators that burnout, low pay, and unstable schedules demand meaningful workforce reforms.
“Pill fatigue” is rising as consumers juggle oversized supplement stacks that feel costly, confusing, and unsustainable. Experts say the near-term will favor simpler, food forward formats and consolidated nutrition that replaces sprawling pill regimens.
Packaging costs are climbing as the Iran conflict disrupts oil, aluminum, and plastics, tightening supply chains and pressuring CPG margins. Food manufacturers face tough choices as safety rules limit material changes and volatility persists.
Fusion flavors, beverage experimentation, and a renewed appetite for real meat dominated the 2026 NRA Show. The show floor made clear that consumers want bold flavor play, flexible formats, and familiar indulgence elevated with fresh ideas.
Snacking is booming even as Americans chase healthier eating, with taste still driving most choices as better-for-you options gain ground. SPINS data shows that emerging flavors, functional ingredients, and premium nutrition are reshaping what households buy and why.
Wellness and global texture play were on display at the NRA Show 2026. Many operators featured multi-sensory comfort foods. Plus, exhibitors showed how restaurants can meet demand for healthier choices while still delivering visual flair and craveable indulgence.
A select few restaurants are holding their ground in a strained consumer economy, as diners cut weekday visits but still spend on celebrations and experience-driven meals. Restaurants like Fogo de Chão are leaning into occasion-based dining to keep traffic steady, even as sentiment weakens.
Retailers are missing a major at home dining opportunity as Circana data shows dinner occasions with guests drive far higher spending than current strategies capture. New occasion-based insights reveal where retailers and CPGs can unlock meaningful growth by aligning merchandising, promotions and product development with how people actually eat at home.
Though voice AI systems improve drive-thru speed and accuracy, many diners still find the experience unsettling. A concept called the ‘uncanny valley’ could offer insight into why diners say they’d rather have a human take their order – even if AI is more likely to get it right.
BMO’s 2026 Global Farm to Market conference spotlighted rising fertilizer costs, protein-rich food demand, GLP-1 eating trends, and gene-edited crop innovation as food and agriculture companies navigate inflation, energy volatility, and shifting consumer expectations.
Consumers are pushing back as food prices climb and product quality slips, forcing brands to prove their value instead of relying on loyalty. Experts warn that transparency, experience and truly differentiated products matter more than ever in defending price.
GLP-1 drugs are reshaping consumer behavior as shoppers eat less, cook less, and seek convenient, small-portion meals marketed as GLP-1 friendly. Food companies are racing to protect revenue by pushing nutrient-dense, protein-forward products tailored to these shifting habits.
Delta is dropping free snacks and drinks on short flights, sparking backlash from loyal customers who see the move as another cost-cutting measure. Critics warn the shift risks eroding customer trust at a moment when airlines can’t afford missteps.
At the 21st annual BMO Global Farm to Market conference, industry leaders discussed the impact of market volatility on agribusiness. Private label, prepared food convenience, and better-for-you beverages emerged as clear growth levers.
Irresistible Foods Group President John Linehan explains why leadership, innovation, and organizational capabilities will define competitive advantage in the future of food and beverage.
Burger King and McDonald’s are regaining momentum by pairing sharper pricing with better food, marketing, and operations, while rivals that leaned only on discounts are losing ground. The industry now faces consumers who demand value and quality just as costs keep rising.
Eating patterns, movement, sleep and community emerge as the strongest levers for reaching 100, according to recent research on supercentenarians. Experts say fiber intake, whole foods and metabolic health offer clear opportunities for food and beverage brands shaping longevity focused innovation.
Nestlé is rolling out Vital, a nutrient-dense shake line aimed at aging consumers and the GLP-1 era, signaling fresh competition in the fast-growing protein nutrient-dense drink category. The launch reflects rising interest in convenient products that support strength, mobility and metabolic wellness.
As affordability concerns intensify, shoppers are increasingly turning to Costco, Sam’s Club, and other warehouse retailers for value. But experts told FI smaller grocers still have ways to compete – especially through specialty, ethnic, and hard-to-find products.
Kyle Diamantas, a corporate lawyer turned food policy chief, is set to step in as acting FDA commissioner after Marty Makary’s turbulent exit. His appointment raises fresh questions for F&B leaders watching regulatory shifts on safety, processing, and nicotine products.
Prepared foods sections of grocery stores and convenience chains are gradually eating into the waning food-away-from-home dollars formerly reserved for foodservice. Lunch day part declines are especially noticeable in the new market.
Lawmakers are pushing to let SNAP dollars cover hot prepared foods, putting rotisserie chickens and deli meals in play for retailers. Public health experts say the move helps time strapped families but doesn’t replace lost nutrition education.
Mediterranean fast casual chains are outpacing the entire limited-service sector as consumers equate Greek and regional Mediterranean flavors with clean, feel-good eating. Brands like Cava, Naya, and Taziki’s are turning that health halo into standout 2025 sales growth.
In the latest episode of Table Talk, LP’s Kevin Slaughter and BMO’s Thomas DeMinico discuss Mid-Day Squares’ mission and growth. Co-founder Jake Karls explained the larger market gap, overall macronutrient strategy, and how the brand innovated in the face of the ongoing cocoa crisis.
MAHA voters have growing concerns about high medical costs as expiring subsidies push millions out of affordable coverage. Providers warn outdated care models and rising dental debt are straining households and reshaping consumer spending.
The modern, “accessible consumer” is reshaping how the F&B industry defines value, moving fluidly between premium and budget choices in the same basket. Brands that cling to outdated segmentation risk losing relevance to shoppers who reward products that genuinely feel worth it, according to FI’s resident marketing expert.
Starbucks’ recent quarterly report shows customers are once again enamored by their neighborhood coffeehouse, but a look into their financials shows a fundamental shift in how they think about the customer journey. North American comparable store sales rose for the third consecutive time, up 7% compared to last quarter.
Fruit-forward refreshers are the latest battleground for beverage innovation that quick-service restaurants are using to gain an edge. Panera, Taco Bell, Whataburger, Bojangles, Dunkin’ and more, are leaning into these offerings to appeal to Gen Z palates.
Despite growing concerns around fraud, data privacy, and AI making purchases autonomously, shoppers continue embracing AI tools throughout the buying journey. Industry experts told FI what’s fueling the disconnect — and why transparency may determine which brands win consumer confidence.
As Subway endeavors to return to growth, its culling its footprint and repositioning to target the better-for-you cost-conscious shopper. Is a protein-packed value menu and poppi soda enough to beat its $5 curse?
Peptides are trending among fitness influencers and celebrities; however, regulatory compliance hasn’t caught up with these therapies. Medical professionals recommend further research and regulation before they enter the mainstream market.
The fear of immigration raids is now interfering with restaurant operations, leading to chronic restaurant labor shortages.
A recent consumer report by dunnhumby revealed that most shoppers will trade data for relevant ads, but only when trust and timing align. Retailers who blend familiar products with smart recommendations can influence purchases without crossing into intrusive territory.
Young shoppers plan to boost summer spending, and food and beverage tops their list, according to a recent survey, giving retailers a seasonal demand surge to court. Rapid trend cycles and omnichannel habits mean brands need sharper forecasting.
