Secret Sauce: New York Brand Offers Unique Twist on Latin Flavors

Loisa, a Latin sauces and seasonings brand, is finding success with a focus on clean, vegan ingredients. The brand’s leaders have strived to stay true to their Latin heritage.

Electro-Agriculture: A Novel Method Allowing Plants to Grow in the Dark

Bioengineers have developed a farming method that essentially replaces photosynthesis with a solar-powered chemical reaction, which could enhance sustainability and restore ecosystems.

Next-Gen Retail Media is Here for Grocery Delivery Platforms

Instacart, DoorDash, and Just Eat Takeaway have all entered the retail media space and are continuing to deliver on unique advertising capabilities for CPGs and retailers.

Timing and Loyalty Mitigate Impact of McDonald’s Outbreak

McDonald’s recent food safety issue linked to tainted onions has had a muted impact on its stock and consumer response, as confidence remains strong due to the chain’s history and quick corrective actions.

Has Mike Tyson Bitten Off More Than He Can Chew with Mr. Charlie’s?

Mike Tyson is investing in a QSR chain dubbed the “vegan McDonald’s.” However, the rapidly expanding brand has locations in California, where the recent minimum wage increase played a major role in the demise of Kevin Hart’s similar concept last month.

Better Educated, Better Ingredient Access: The Evolution of the Home Cook

The rise in home cooking among consumers is driven by better access to diverse ingredients and a more adventurous generation of eaters, according to renowned food columnist Eric Kim. He feels Americans’ appetite for authentic, global flavors will continue to grow.

New ‘Kidult’ on the Block: Grownup Happy Meals, Halloween Deals

The trend of “kidult” marketing features brands like McDonald’s and Taco Bell creating nostalgic experiences tailored for adults. Brands are tapping into nostalgia to appeal to millennials and Gen Z.

Column: Walmart, Amazon in High-Tech Food Fight

Amazon’s chief engineer used to have a dog named Rufus who ran up and down the halls fetching tennis balls. That doesn’t seem like a big deal for a multibillion-dollar business. But recently, Amazon brought …

Coke’s Spiced Flavor Fell Flat; What’s Next for the Soda Segment?

Coca-Cola’s discontinuation of its Spiced soda reflects consumer preference for its nostalgic items. One marketing expert said Coca-Cola struggles with innovation and could learn a lesson from Dr Pepper.

Kellanova Exec: Sustainability Now a ‘Non-Negotiable’

In 2024, companies like Kellanova view sustainability as a non-negotiable responsibility. Kellanova’s VP of global R&D recently advocated for better support for U.S. farmers and sustainable practices throughout the supply chain.

New Report Shows Latina GDP in U.S. Surging

The Latina GDP in the U.S. is growing rapidly, surging at 2.7 times the rate of the non-Hispanic GDP. That figure reached $1.3 trillion in 2021, making Latinas a growing economic force.

Restaurant Industry Faces New Crisis With Surge in Bankruptcies

Restaurants continue to face challenges, including labor shortages, supply chain disruptions, and rising inflation, leading to increased bankruptcies. Industry experts predict continued struggles and stress the need for leveraging technology to survive.

Modern ‘Boss Mindset’ Entails Empowering Employees, Leaders Say

At a recent Hugo Boss event, The Food Institute’s Brian Choi and Jump Rope Innovation’s Robyn Carter discussed effective modern leadership and the state of the food industry today.

Amazon’s Latest Pilot Could Be a Masterclass in Unified Shopping

Amazon recently debuted its latest brick-and-mortar format in Chicago: Amazon Grocery. Its strategy, however, may take business from Whole Foods or motivate shoppers to stay in its ecosystem.

Jackpot: Jackfruit Has Become a Plant-Based Bright Spot

Annie Ryu, founder of The Jackfruit Company and the jack & annie’s brand, is a believer in the health and sustainability benefits of jackfruit. As her brands are receiving significant investment, she’s focusing on partnerships to scale production and lower costs.

Is Organic Losing Its Luster? Inflation, Skepticism Reshape Market

Organic food once thrived on consumer perception of health benefits but is now struggling due to increased competition and consumer confusion about labeling. Experts say organic producers must adapt by emphasizing additional value.

The Scariest Thing This Halloween Might be Chocolate Prices

Halloween candy prices are soaring due to rising chocolate costs driven by poor harvests in Africa and a global cocoa production deficit.

Sourdough, Dumplings Among 5 Whole Foods Trends for 2025

Whole Foods has predicted major food trends for 2025, forecasting dumplings to become a portable comfort food, while global flavors will inspire bold new snack combinations.

Bobagate: Actor Simu Liu Sparks Controversy Over RTD Boba Tea

On a recently aired episode of Dragons’ Den, actor Simu Liu accused a better-for-you boba brand of cultural appropriation, incites online controversy in a movement dubbed “bobagate.”

Can Probiotics Improve Autism Symptoms? One Brand Believes So

A new probiotic line aims to support neurodivergent individuals by improving gut health and addressing mood-related issues. While experts note the potential benefits of probiotics for mood and GI function, they say it may not dramatically change core autism traits.

How Dirty Sodas Moved from Streaming Platform to Mainstream Culture

Yelp searches for dirty soda rose 609% year over year, a trend largely driven by Hulu’s show “The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives” and the continued momentum of the sober curiosity movement.

Out of Juice? Juice Brands Fight for Fresh Appeal

The juice market is struggling as consumers increasingly seek healthier options. Experts at one recent industry event emphasized the need for brands to seize upon trends like sugar reduction.

Consumer Angst Necessitates F&B Industry Action

Roughly 86% of shoppers report consumer frustration when shopping for groceries. A new report sheds light on the woes that plague the shopper journey, while also offering advice to manufacturers and retailers looking to retain their consumer base.

3 Key Takeaways from Fresh Thyme Market’s 2025 Food Trends

Fresh Thyme Market recently revealed its 2025 food trends aimed at identifying the consumer preferences shaping Midwestern palates in the coming year. Mangoes, spicy foods, and non-alcoholic beverages are all slated to grain ground.

U.S. Water Quality a Growing Concern for Foodservice

Although tap water in the U.S. is generally safe to drink, Americans don’t trust it: one report found only 41% of customers perceive their water safe. Consumers remain weary of water sources, leaving restaurant operators in a tough spot.

Rebirth of the Alt-Meat Market? Frozen Continues to Outperform Fresh

The alt-meat market, which peaked in 2018-19, saw sales decline due to factors like market saturation and high prices, but signs of recovery are emerging, particularly in the frozen segment, according to expert Chris DuBois of Circana.

Kind of a Big Deal: Snack Brand Targets Protein, Flavor in 2025

Beth Jarocki, chief customer officer at KIND Snacks, said modern shoppers are as focused as ever on consuming more protein, less sugar, and bolder, spicier flavors.

5 Health and Wellness Trends to Watch in 2025

As consumers increasingly prioritize health and wellness, trends like gut health and intermittent fasting continue to gain traction. As a result, brands must take steps like monitoring online conversations to stay relevant in the evolving market.

Bursting the Bubbly: 8 Fiber-Rich Foods Cheaper Than Prebiotic Soda

Prebiotic sodas, like those from POPPI and OLIPOP, are marketed as healthy beverages with added fiber to support gut health. However, one registered dietitian noted that the trendy drinks can also cause digestive issues for some individuals.

Customization and Culture: How Starbucks Turns Pricey Coffee into Loyalty

Starbucks maintains customer loyalty despite higher prices by offering personalized options like mobile ordering and customization. While consumers are sensitive to price, experts feel Starbucks’ focus on convenience and atmosphere helps sustain its growth.

Battle of the Brands: Gen Z Top Drinks, Snacks, Fast-Food Faves

Piper Sandler’s “Taking Stock With Teens” survey reveals that Gen Z favors Chick-fil-A, Monster, and Goldfish, respectively. More than anything, brands that prioritize convenience and energy remain the top choices.

The Future of Grocery Shopping is Omnichannel

Food and beverage stakeholders already know that to guarantee a sale, one must meet consumers where they are. Today, that’s online. Nearly 70% of consumers purchase groceries online in some capacity, according to recent data …

Hurricane Milton Threatens Florida’s Citrus Industry

Hurricane Milton, a Category 5 storm with winds up to 180 mph, is expected to hit Tampa Bay Wednesday, causing billions in damage to real estate and crops. Florida state officials have issued urgent warnings.

2025’s F&B Game-Changers: Rule Rebellion and Hybrid Harvests

Two trends could shape the future of food and beverage: “rule rebellion,” where consumers indulge in unconventional food experiences, and “hybrid harvests,” where brands integrate tech with traditional farming for sustainable food systems.

CPGs Bet Big on Plant-Based Packaging

Plant-based packaging is gaining momentum, prompted by environmental concerns, regulatory pressures, and corporate sustainability efforts. With a projected 9% CAGR in the plant-based packaging market expected through 2032, companies like Califia Farms are innovating with recyclable solutions.

From Data to Dollars: AI Inspires Marketing Hyper-Personalization

AI is revolutionizing the consumer journey for CPG brands. Yet, while AI enhances predictive insights, concerns about data privacy and the balance between automation and human connection remain key considerations for brands, according to industry insiders.