From SKUs to Ecosystems: The Future of Food Innovation

AI is fast becoming shoppers’ trusted assistant, especially in grocery. As a result, brands must now master AI algorithms, build trust, and optimize for voice-driven, chatbot-powered discovery.

The Cult of Crab Rangoon: Consumers Crave Nostalgia, ‘Play’

Crab Rangoon is riding a wave of nostalgic virality, evolving from comfort food to cultural icon. Its playful reinventions and mass appeal offer operators a low-barrier entry into high-impact, trend-driven dining.

The Top 5 Gen Z Food Trends This Fall, According to Chartwells

This fall, the Gen Z food trends are smoky, global, and TikTok-approved, according to Chartwells’ 2025 campus dining forecast. From ube brunch items to Monster Matcha, flavor innovations are meeting students where they scroll.

The Top 3 Flavors Influencing Product Launches

Flavors like matcha, hot honey, and pickles are surging in 2025, driven by viral trends and nostalgic cravings. Social media-savvy consumers are rewriting the flavor playbook – and retailers are hustling to keep pace.

Gen Z Wants to Turn Everything into a Sauce, Including Soda

When asked which foods and drinks Gen Zers wanted to experience in sauce form, 10% of survey respondents referenced a soda – some by its brand name; others by its flavor profile. Here are their top flavor choices.

The Sauces Star at KFC’s Saucy

KFC’s Saucy spinoff flips fast food on its head, making sauce the star with various flavor combos and a vibe-forward experience. Gen Z diners, after all, are chasing chicken these days.

SeoulSpice Korean Kitchen: From Family Recipes to Fast-Casual Success

SeoulSpice Korean Kitchen recently expanded into Chicago, opening its first location on March 31. Founded by Eric Shin, principal percussionist of the National Symphony Orchestra in Washington, D.C., the chain known for its fresh rice and noodle bowls has grown to a total of eight locations across D.C. and Chicago.

The Craziest MLB Concession Stand Items of 2025

Extravagant MLB concession stand foods have become as American as apple pie. On the official opening day of the Major League Baseball campaign, FI breaks down the wildest concession stand items in 2025 – from massive tiramisu orders at Yankee Stadium to dyed corn dogs in Seattle.

Brown Butter: A Melt-in-Your-Mouth Trend to Watch in 2025

Brown butter is emerging as a major 2025 flavor trend, according to an Edlong report. Known for its rich, nutty flavor, its versatility and affordability make it a favorite among chefs and young demographics.