FI Fast Break audio news: Aug. 20, 2025

The latest FI Fast Break news podcast examines how brands are increasingly collaborating on snack and beverage mashups in playful crossovers.

Feeling Peachy: Summer Darling Leads Beverage Innovation

Peach-enhanced menu items are growing in popularity, now on 19.8% of foodservice menus, according to one report. The fruit has found its stride in beverage innovation, with legacy brands experimenting with the flavor.

Behold, ‘Kitchen Table Travelers’: Ajvar Is Spreading

Ajvar is a Yugoslavian relish that became popular after World War II. Made primarily from sweet bell peppers and eggplants, ajvar can be sweet (traditional), piquant (common), or scorching hot. Ajvar can be spread on bread or enjoyed as a side dish due to its thicker and more viscous texture.

Hot, Hotter, Hottest: Summer Forecast Could Challenge U.S. Ag

Those lazy, hazy days of summer are expected to be hotter than ever this year, according to the Farmers’ Almanac, but then again, the publication has been right only slightly better than half the time …

Locally Sourced Produce Can Boost Summer Sales

Summer offers the perfect opportunity for grocers to offer locally grown produce to differentiate themselves from the competition. Shoppers are looking for fresh foods for all occasions, from morning meals to barbecues, and positioning the …

FI Fast Break audio news: July 5, 2023

The latest Food Institute news podcast touches on the big change of plans for world-renowned restaurant Noma.

FI Fast Break audio news: May 24, 2023

The latest Food Institute news podcast touches on the growth of seltzers and hard spirits as Summer 2023 approaches.

Summer Preview ’23: Inflation Alters Vacation Plans

Inflation is lingering like an in-law overstaying their welcome. As a result, consumers are demanding deals as they make vacation plans for summer 2023. Judging by recent research, consumers plan to hit the road in …

Predicted Increase in Travel Could Benefit QSRs

U.S. gas prices breached $4 per gallon in every state in March, according to AAA, while JP Morgan predicts they could surpass $6 by the end of the summer. Regardless, after two years of COVID …

Blackouts in the Forecast for Summer

The food industry should be on high alert this summer amid warnings from the North American Electric Corp. that high temperatures, drought and the prospects of extreme weather could contribute to blackouts across the continent. …