FI Spotlight: Petmalu! Why Filipino Food Is Exploding in Popularity Right Now

American consumers are loving new food experiences right now. At the moment, many are turning their attention to the Philippines. Statistics show that interest in Filipino food has risen by 50 percent in the past ...

Exploring the Vibrancy of Jarritos: Hispanic Flavors in a Bottle

It's a beverage beloved by millions, and an undeniable favorite to go with any taco dish. It's Jarritos soda, and The Food Institute got a inside look at this iconic brand while attending the International ...

FI Spotlight: 3 Smart Gardens Reviewed by a Plant Expert

Technology has paved the way for growing fresh produce anywhere, but which smart garden is best for your needs? Join us on FI Spotlight as Tyler Mason, Assistant Professor of Horticulture at Oklahoma State University, ...

FI Fast Break audio news: April 9, 2025

The latest FI Fast Break news podcast touches on messaging about carbon footprints on food labels that may be key to sustainable food choices.

FI Spotlight: Hawaiian Cuisine Is Exploding—Here’s Why Everyone Wants a Taste

Hawaiian cuisine is making waves in the U.S., with Hawaiian barbecue and mac salad skyrocketing in popularity. Learn what’s fueling this surge, how businesses are capitalizing on it, and why consumers crave island flavors. Watch ...

FI Fast Break audio news: April 2, 2025

The latest FI Fast Break news podcast touches on the future of the Hooters restaurant chain, after it filed for bankruptcy on March 31.

FI Fast Break audio news: March 26, 2025

The latest FI Fast Break news podcast touches on an innovative new product that uses pea protein and targets those using weight-loss drugs.

FI Fast Break audio news: March 19, 2025

The latest FI Fast Break news podcast notes new research that points to the link between diet and lung cancer.

FI Fast Break audio news: March 12, 2025

The latest FI Fast Break news podcast touches on the smaller and regional brands that have begun to emerge as consumers seek affordability.

Green Means Go: Maximizing Profits on St. Patrick’s Day

One industry insider considers St. Patrick’s Day the “Black Friday for bars and restaurants.” March 17 offers the opportunity for big profits – assuming operators create high-margin LTOs and leverage cost-effective marketing strategies

FI Fast Break audio news: March 4, 2025

The latest FI Fast Break news podcast touches on rising global obesity rates, the future of the Walgreen’s pharmacy chain, and more.

FI Fast Break audio news: Feb. 25, 2025

The latest FI Fast Break news podcast touches on eye-opening stats regarding consumer sentiment towards regenerative agriculture.

FI Fast Break audio news: Feb. 19, 2025

The latest FI Fast Break news podcast discusses PepsiCo and Coca-Cola’s pending forays into the fast-growing prebiotic soda market.

FI Fast Break audio news: Feb. 11, 2025

The latest FI Fast Break news podcast discusses Coca-Cola’s apparent pivot away from sugar, along with other industry news.

‘We’re Getting a Beatdown’: How the LA Fires are Affecting the Restaurant Industry

In the wake of historic wildfires, Los Angeles’ food community has rallied to support those in need by offering free meals and raising funds. This collective effort underscores the industry’s commitment to community support.

FI Fast Break audio news: Feb. 5, 2025

The latest FI Fast Break news podcast notes food manufacturers’ big plans to tap into the gut health trend, Valentine’s Day trends, and more.

Hunger Games: How Gamified Loyalty Programs Help Restaurants Win

Gamification is emerging as a winning strategy for restaurants looking to enhance their customer loyalty programs. 76% of owners said they plan to gamify their programs in the next 2 years, with brands like Starbucks, Jimmy John’s, and Dunkin’ leading the charge.

How to Empower Local Restaurants Through Technology

André Moraes of PepsiCo Digital Lab shares how experiences, microinfluencers, and the Local Eats program can help propel restaurants in 2025.

Super Profitable: Experts Offer Super Bowl Sunday Gameplan for Bars, Restaurants

As Super Bowl Sunday nears, establishments may have a fierce battle for customers on their hands. Fortunately, consumers sound poised to spend, as 76% plan to spend up to $250 on Super Bowl Sunday preparations.

FI Fast Break audio news: Jan. 15, 2025

The latest FI Fast Break news podcast touches on the recent struggles of Noodles & Company, according to an industry turnaround expert.

FI Fast Break audio news: Jan. 8, 2025

The latest FI Fast Break podcast touches on the push to reframe products like plant-based dairy and meat alternatives as conventional fare.

FI Fast Break audio news: Jan. 2, 2025

The latest FI Fast Break news podcast touches on Starbucks’ revamped drink menu for 2025, featuring new beverages like a Cortado.

FI Fast Break audio news: Dec. 24, 2024

The latest FI Fast Break news podcast notes Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s reported plans to disqualify soda from programs like SNAP. 

Everyone’s an Expert: How TikTok Democratized the Culinary Scene

TikTok is driving viral food trends while spiking sales for some businesses. For food brands and restaurants, the platform’s unparalleled reach can spark both massive success and unexpected controversy.

FI Fast Break audio news: Dec. 18, 2024

The latest FI Fast Break news podcast examines Walmart’s plans to equip employees with body cameras at some U.S. locations.

FI Fast Break audio news: Dec. 11, 2024

The latest FI Fast Break news podcast touches on the recent rise in buy-now-pay-later purchases by consumers.

FI Fast Break audio news: Dec. 4, 2024

The latest Food Institute Fast Break news podcast touches on consumers’ growing demand for not just value, but also luxury offerings.

FI Spotlight: What You Need to Know About CES 2025

Step into the future of food service at CES 2025, where cutting-edge tech exhibitions showcase the latest innovations. Let's dive into what's changing at the upcoming show and the top themes in this exciting FI ...

FI Fast Break audio news: Nov. 26, 2024

The latest Food Institute Fast Break news podcast touches on PepsiCo’s latest noteworthy industry acquisition.

FI Fast Break audio news: Nov. 20, 2024

The latest Food Institute Fast Break news podcast touches on restaurant operators’ outlook on labor for 2025.

FI Fast Break audio news: Nov. 13, 2024

The latest FI Fast Break news podcast touches on Tyson Foods’ optimism for 2025, and Amazon’s newest delivery innovation.

FI Fast Break audio news: Nov. 6, 2024

The latest FI Fast Break news podcast touches on another notable restaurant bankruptcy, and Filipino cuisine’s surging popularity.

FI Fast Break audio news: Oct. 30, 2024

The latest Food Institute Fast Break news podcast touches on the newest beers that are marketed to young adults.

News Roundup (October 25, 2024): Why Are So Many Restaurants Going Bankrupt?

In this week's FI News Roundup, we cover the current state of the restaurant sector as it sets to have the most bankruptcy filings in decades, an update on the TreeHouse Foods, Inc. product recall, ...

FI Fast Break audio news: Oct. 23, 2024

The latest Food Institute Fast Break news podcast touches on the soaring price of cocoa ahead of Halloween.

Data-Driven Dining: Restaurant Insights for 2025

Amid inflationary headwinds and fluctuating consumer demand, restaurant operators are facing difficult times. What are consumers looking for when they eat out, and what operators are successfully navigating the current climate? The Food Institute hosted …