The newest generation of tiny tastemakers, Gen Alpha, are balancing fun, flavor, and function into their food occasions. Some trends from the year ahead endeavor to make unique experiences more accessible.
Nostalgia is booming, but recreating “childhood flavors” is far more complex than matching ingredients. As neurogastronomy shows, brands are really chasing memories and emotions—making retro hits powerful, but notoriously hard to get right.
Consumers have become “uncommitted,” hopping between retailers and restaurants as price pressure, tariffs, and value seeking behaviors reshape spending. To win them back, brands must deliver sharper value, smarter incentives, and experiences that meet shoppers exactly where their needs are shifting.
McCormick’s once faded growth story is regaining heat, as consumer volumes stabilize and younger generations fuel long term demand for bold, global flavors.
Sabine Schommer and Guido Hentschke explore how ISM, ISM Ingredients, and ProSweets Cologne serve as a meet-up for the snacking industry.
The latest FI Fast Break podcast touches on projections for food industry M&A in 2026, including the role wellness is expected to play.
Adam Michaels, CEO of Mama’s Creations, shares how the deli category is evolving and is primed for innovation.
The latest FI Fast Break news podcast touches on President Trump’s plans to provide $12 billion in aid for farmers caught up in trade wars.
The latest FI Fast Break news podcast touches on the future of fast-casual restaurant chains that rely on so-called “slop bowls.”
Barry Thomas, senior thought leader at Kantar, unpacks the rapid rise of agentic AI — a new class of AI systems that don’t just generate information, but take action on behalf of the user.
The latest FI Fast Break news podcast touches on projections for a sizable uptick in Cyber Monday shopping.
Former Oatly U.S. President Mike Messersmith explores how Lasso’s SpinTech could transform food processing, creating sustainable, high-protein, clean-label innovations with new textures and ingredient possibilities.
The latest FI Fast Break news podcast touches on the growing list of restaurant chains and operating groups that have filed for bankruptcy.
