Sales of Plant-Based Meat and Dairy Alternatives Rise 20%

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The plant-based food industry is no longer a niche. With many people shifting to this lifestyle, it has moved into the mainstream food culture. The meat and dairy producers are fighting back at all cost. Senator Tammy Baldwin of Wisconsin introduced the Dairy Pride Act that reserved the word “milk” to products precisely for lactating animal sources. However, the Food and Drugs Administration (FDA) is hands-off with this matter as the consumers are not confused with the term milk especially those made from plant sources. The agency reasoned that the terms are used to help consumers and not to protect selected industries against their competitors.

More Companies Jumping on the Bandwagon

And so instead of fighting against the plant-based food industry, some companies are trying to find out how to use this trend to their advantage. A study from HealthFocus International revealed that 17% of the consumers in the country aged between 15 and 70 years old claim to eat a plant-based diet while 60% are cutting back on dairy and milk products.

With this information, food manufacturing giants are transforming some of their products to meet the demands of the emerging number of plant-based dieters in the country. For example, the company Tyson Foods took a 5% stake in Beyond Meat two years ago. It is interesting to take note that Tyson Foods, one of the largest meat companies, invested in a plant-based company. The plant-based food industry has also added new rosters of companies that are dedicated to making exclusively plant-based food items. These include Beyond Meat and Impossible Burger that have made plant-based proteins more palatable to vegetarians, vegans, and carnivores alike. As such, the plant-based food industry is estimated to hit 5.2 billion within the next two years, and products from these companies are now found in more than 10,000 groceries nationwide.

The growth of the plant-based food industry is also the driver for the expansion of such companies. For instance, Beyond Meat announced that it was opening a new research and development center that will work together in discovering and developing plant-based meats for everyone to enjoy. This will boost the sales of plant-based meat alternatives that are experiencing a jump in its total sales from 6% to 24% from the previous years.

 

Dairy Alternatives Continue to Soar in Sales Growth

While the plant-based meats are soaring high this year, the sale of plant-based diary makes up a meager portion of the pie. Data shows that only 13% of “milk” sales come from non-dairy sources. Although small, it is projected to rise in the next few years as consumers continue to look for healthier alternatives and cleaner sources. And the prospect is very much definite as companies like Campbell’s are now selling protein milk sourced from peas. There is also a growth in the sales of plant-based creamers at 131% while plant-based cheese is at 43% while the sales of cow’s milk dropped to 6% last year.

Inspired by www.fooddive.com

Generation Z Will Influence the Future of Food & Beverage Innovation

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Companies are now looking harder at Generation Z on how they will impact the future of the food and beverage industry. Generation Z or the iGeneration precedes the millennials. They have the potential to change expectations when it comes to health and wellness and also increase the reach of different cuisines from all over the world. In a recent survey conducted by Mintel, they looked in-depth at the reasons why this tech-savvy generation will transform the food and beverage industry.

Head Start On The Healthy Lifestyle

Born from health-conscious late Generation X and early Millennial parents, Generation Z has an early head start on the healthy lifestyle. The Mintel study suggests that 25% of teens between 15 and 17 years old worry about staying healthy. 11% of the respondents claimed that they had low or reduced sugar intake compared to their counterparts. The reason for this is that their parents are always on the lookout when it comes to their health, and as a result, it is natural for them to build healthy habits. In fact, the youngest consumers are increasingly growing in terms of living health-conscious lifestyles such that 49% of the respondents believe that drinking soda is unhealthy. According to Dana Macke, Associate Director for Lifestyle and Leisure Reports from Mintel; this generation has grown up when health and wellness became a major consideration.

They Are Culturally Aware

This generation is the most diverse in the history of the United States. They come from varied ethnic and racial backgrounds or they are raised from parents who have broader palates thus they are more culturally aware in terms of food. This is the reason why 36% of the responded seem to have an appreciation for international cuisine not only limited to Italian, Chinese, and Mexican. In fact, there are more respondents who enjoy cuisines such as Indian (36%), Middle Eastern (38%), and African (27%). This food appreciation may drive the consumption of emerging international food and beverages. The reason for this is social media. They also use social media to cook different types of food with more than 60% of the respondents claiming that they cook international food at home using social media compared to the 40% and 23% of Millennials and Generation X; respectively.

Their exposure to international food starts at a very young age, so they are more likely to try out the latest international food trend or innovate on food. The adventurous food habits have led to products that feature a fusion of different cultures such as salted duck potato chops, tikka masala meal kits, and many others.

The Digital World Will Influence The Future of Food & Beverage

This generation has been raised in an era where exposure to digital media is rampant. Since they can access information 24/7, the younger generations have grown to have excellent researching skills. Their digital upbringing helps them learn about new cuisines and experiment on them. This trend is making them more creative, passionate, curious, and accepting than the other older demographics.

Inspired by www.mintel.com

Innova Market Insights Show 62% Increase in Plant-Based Product Claims

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There is a growing interest among the consumers not only for healthier products but also those that are sourced from ethical and sustainable methods. This is the reason plant-based products and ingredients are increasing in popularity and growth. Today, there are so many companies that are dedicated to producing plant-based products to cater to this growing market niche and it will not be long until this trend takes on the mainstream competition.

Plant-Based Ingredients Are Rising in Popularity

According to the report released by Innova Market Insights, plant-based product claims have increased by 62% globally with an estimated sales forecast of $4.2 billion in the United States. Plant-based products include platforms like active botanicals, plant-proteins, non-dairy milk, seasonings, sweeteners, food coloring, and so much more.

 

One example that shows how popular the plant-based foods market is the non-dairy products industry. According to Lu Ann Williams, Director of Innovation at Innova Market Insight, the availability and promotion of plant-based alternatives to dairy products such as yogurt, ice cream, and milk have helped drive the industry. In fact, global sales of non-dairy milk are higher by 8% since last year and have earned $16.3 billion in global sales.

The Growth of Non-Dairy Milk Products

It is estimated that plant-based milk products will double its growth within the next five years. With this fact, there are many companies that are venturing into non-dairy milk products category. Successful companies that have ventured into non-dairy milk products include Spoonable. The company makes non-dairy yogurt and it saw a growth of 48% during the 2013-2017 market period.

While some non-dairy milk products are successful, some have stable yet minimal growth. For instance, a non-dairy alternative such as plant-based cheese and creams only save minimal growth of 0.5% in 2012 to 1.5% in 2017. The probable reason for yogurt having more sales is because it is touted as a healthy product. Many companies are researching sources of non-dairy milk alternatives and aside from your usual oats and almonds, plant-based milk and milk products are now made from hazelnuts, walnuts, cashews, macadamias, coconut, flaxseed, and hemp.

Plant-Based Product Claims Grow in Meat Category

There is a growing interest when it comes to plant-based eating and it is reflected in the development of alternatives from the meat industry. Plant-based meats used today are made from soy, grains, and vegetables. Companies like Valess and Quorn were the pioneers of the plant-based meat industry. Today, other companies have sprung up such as Beyond Meat and Impossible Burger that have produced plant-based meat that tastes and bleeds like real meat.

There are many reasons why people gravitate towards plant-based ingredients these days. The pull towards plant-based diets such as flexitarianism, vegetarianism, and veganism might be the most important factor that contributed to such a shift in food preferences. In fact, the same market study noted that four in ten or 40% of consumers in the United States have increased their consumption of meat and dairy alternatives since last year.

Inspired by www.prnewswire.com

Is Broccoli America’s Favorite Vegetable?

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Green Giant is a well-known brand that markets high quality and delicious vegetables. For National Eat Your Vegetables Day (June 17) they took an open-ended survey from each state nationwide. From that survey, they concluded that America’s favorite veggie is broccoli. To come up with unbiased results, the company surveyed a variety of people across the nation. The Green Giant surveyed almost 4,000 people to determine their findings.

Survey Finds Broccoli is America’s Favorite Veggie

Some key findings from the survey include that broccoli is the most popular vegetable in 47% of the states. In only 9 of the U.S. states, corn was the favorite, making it the second most favorite vegetable. Ironically, Idaho who is known for their potatoes was the only state to choose peas as their favorite. Noticeably missing from the favorites list are celery, onions, peppers, and spinach.

California, Nevada, Texas, and Florida are some of the states whose favorite vegetable was broccoli. Potatoes surprisingly were only chosen as a favorite by only five states. The cucumber was favorited by two states. There were five states who chose carrots. Four states chose green beans as their favorite. Large population states like New York, California, and Florida, all chose broccoli.

More Information on the Survey

After the survey data compilation, it showed that the Green Giant surveyed a total of 3,902 United States residents. All of these people surveyed were 18 years old and above. They all also have agreed to be part of this open-ended survey regarding their favorite vegetable and which state they live in. The Green Giant used Crowd Tap to conduct this survey from April 20, 2018 to May 4, 2018.

How Green Giant Is Making New Products

As the Green Giant continues its research on the development of their products, they will take into account the findings from their surveys in order to make better-suited products for their consumers.  Green Giant is still also looking to expand their Veggie Swap-Ins line, which includes Green Giant Veggie Tots, Green Giant Veggie Spirals, and Green Giant Riced Veggies. There are many more options available from this line. Their website www.greengiant.com has additional information about their lines and their products.

About Green Giant

For over a 100-years, the Green Giant has been picking vegetables at the peak of their perfection and also helping families find new ways to enjoy their products. Over the years the Green Giant became known for their delicious and high-quality vegetables. They have introduced new innovative products that families have loved over the years. Recently, the Green Giant launch of its award-winning Veggie Swap-InsTM line that included many different products, created new convenient and delicious frozen vegetables for families to enjoy.

New Survey: Shoppers Reported that Traditional Package Labels = NOT Enough Details

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In a national study conducted, it showed that 70% of shoppers need to know more about the products they are buying off grocery shelves. They are no longer satisfied with the traditional package labels that come with the item they purchased. In fact, they want to know more beyond these labels.

As such, it has accentuated the usefulness of a new digital tool that makes it easy for shoppers to get access to detailed info on household, personal care, beverage, food and a host of other products sold at supermarkets. This tool is known as the SmartLabel®, and more than 28,000 products are already using the device.

smart label traditional label not enough details packagingWith SmartLabel, shoppers have access to a host of information about the product they’re buying with a touch of their fingertips. It contains far more information than the usual on-package label can ever hold. Information can include product ingredients, where it was sourced, what it does, and even why it was used in the product. Other relevant information can also be accessed via SmartLabel like the product’s environmental impact, animal treatment during the development process, how the product was produced, directions for use, and even a detailed description on allergens.

How to Use SmartLabel®

It is reasonably easy to use so long as you have a Smartphone. Access to this information is instantaneous. All you need to do is use the SmartLabel app to scan the QR code of the product, and like magic, all the information appears.

The Launch of Consumer Education Campaign on Evaluating Package Labels

Since product info for consumers is very accessible via the SmartLabel, in the next several months’ retailers and manufacturers are commencing a campaign to educate consumers. They are hoping to increase people’s awareness about this source of true information on the products they are buying and how to use it.

In early 2017, product participation in SmartLabel was at 4,000 items, and by 2018 it has grown seven-fold. Each week, more and more products are joining SmartLabel—increasing the support for the consumer education program.

In essence, it is believed that retailers are viewed by consumers as the trusted source for information on the products that they sell. This digital disclosure enables the retailer to connect the consumer more closely to the foods and products they buy. Therefore, the education campaign not only raises awareness that there is an app that buyers can turn to for detailed information on products they buy, but it is also a way for buyers to feel more connected to the items they support or use.

According to one user of SmartLabel, Natalia Johnson, the thing she loves most about this digital tool is the ease of use and the convenience. Since she rarely shops without her phone, whenever she wants to get to know a product more, she whips out her phone and scans the QR code.

Product package labels will need to adapt to be clean and full of information on what makes up the product. We look forward to seeing consumers get more information on the food they are eating and how some manufacturers are striving to make it better for you!

Inspired by www.multivu.com

Summer 2018: Kroger’s Top Food Trends

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Here are the top Kroger food trends of summer 2018 to watch out for and enjoy.

1 – Snacking that’s Better for You

With a busy summer, consider raising your standards for on-the-go snacking especially when out and about during road trips, soirees, and picnics. You can take your pick from hydrating with the new sparkling coconut water, fun twists on seltzers, and healthy snack bars. You can choose from Kroger’s Simple Truth Date Bars, Simple Truth Seltzer waters, or Simple Truth Sparkling Coconut Water.

2 – Alcohol Flavored Foods

Summer brings together families and friends to enjoy the sunshine outside and partake in good food. And what better way to imbibe on alcohol without the side effects of being tipsy? Enjoy alcohol-infused food and flavors, of course! Enjoy booze-infused eats, bourbon-infused cola, and even wine-infused steak sauce. Check out Brown Butter Bourbon Truffle Ice Cream to beat the heat or Private Selection Wine Infused Steak Sauces to add oomph to your BBQ parties!

3 – International Flavor

Gustatory delights are just around the corner with new and exciting flavors all over the world. Delight your senses and palate from African Peri Peri to Korean inspired sauces. Try Kroger’s General Tso’s Chicken Potato Chips, Private Selection Wing Sauces, and Private Selection 24-Hr Marinated Jerky to name a few.

4 – Comfort Food

Get nostalgic and remember your childhood days with traditional dishes reinvented to wow your palate. Now that you are a grown-up, you also want to try grown-up renditions of old-school soda pop flavors, pimento cheeses, and even mac & cheese. Interested? Try out Kroger Real Sugar Sodas, Private Selection Mac & Cheese sauces and Kroger Deluxe Ice Cream.

5 – Cocktails and Meals—No Waste

What does that even mean? Well, America is widely known to be wasteful, and to minimize food waste, this is the solution to the dilemma. Did you know that 40% of the food produced each year in this country goes to waste? And did you also know that 1 out of 8 American is hungry? To combat this, consumers are getting more creative when it comes to repurposing ingredients, storing food to extend freshness, buying only what you need, meal planning, and even getting inventive with leftovers.

6 – Flexitarian Lifestyle

Flexitarian is a person who is primarily a vegetarian but sometimes eats fish or meat. It was noted that flexitarian practices are in the trend where people tend to eat vegetables as a significant part of their diet. However, they also enjoy poultry, fish, meat, and dairy on occasions. However, with the innovation in the food industry, there’s so many to choose from the meat-free and dairy-free alternatives that ooze with flavorful enjoyment with each bite. With these options, buyers can have a better-for-me and flexible decisions due to the options available. Kroger choices can be Simple Truth Meatless Crispy Tenders, Simple Truth Meatless Stuffed Cutlets, and Simple Truth Meatless Patties and Crumbles to name a few.

Inspired by www.prnewswire.com

FDA Approves 8 Ingredients for Fiber Claims

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Food manufacturers today boost their products by adding fiber to make them healthier. Fiber is not only found in bread but even in ice cream, brownies, candies, and gummies. For instance, a small bag of Smart Sweet gummy bears contains 28 grams of fiber so that you can get a whole day’s fiber requirement from your favorite sweet.

Fortifying food with fiber is the recent hype among food manufacturers, and the US Food and Drug Administration is supporting the bandwagon by finally approving ingredients that can boost the fiber content of different products. This initiative stemmed after the 2016 rule that indicated that added fiber does not only add the non-digestible carb content on food, but it provides overall health benefits.

Approved Fiber Claims

Today there are eight (8) ingredients approved by the FDA, and these include alginate, arabinoxylan, inulin and inulin-type fructans, galactooligosaccharide, high amylose starch, resistant dextrin/maltodextrin, and polydextrose. While there are the only eight on the list,  the FDA mentioned that it is planning to add other dietary fibers as long as scientific evidence proves that they provide additional health benefits.

Many food manufacturers are ecstatic with the decision of the FDA since it gives their new products the green light. Companies like General Mills and Activa have developed products that include fiber in them. For instance, General Mill’s Fiber One line of products contains inulin and inulin-type fructans. Other brands that contain inulin fiber include Frutafit from Sensus America, Oliggo-Fiber from Cargill, and Orafti from Beneo.

Health Benefits of Fiber

Speaking of health benefits, consumption of fiber can help stabilize both blood sugar and cholesterol levels. It can also help lower the blood pressure and promote good bowel movements. The presence of fiber in the intestinal tract can increase the efficiency of the body for mineral absorption. But more importantly, fiber can also aid in weight loss as it increases the satiety level for a long time.

Consumption of at least 15 grams of fiber daily can help prevent the onset of Type 2 diabetes and colon cancer. But in reality, so many people don’t even come close to the recommended minimum daily amount of 28 grams.

The Dark Side

The effects of putting fiber into food have done most companies good regarding marketing their products. Many consumers believe that food containing fiber is healthier. But this also presents a problem. According to Bonnie Liebman, director of nutrition from the Center for Science in the Public Interest, this might confuse people regarding which foods are truly healthy. For instance, they might opt for a brownie with added fiber over peach because they choose for convenience over real nutrition.

Because of this, it is essential for food manufacturers to explain what type of fiber they are using on their products as well as the kinds of health benefits that consumers can get from them. That way, people will be able to compare the benefits to naturally fiber-rich foods like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. They can also impose upon the consumers to not be too indulgent on their products and that natural fibers occurring in fruits and vegetables should be prioritized.

Inspired by apnews.com

NutriFusion Rolls Out New Innovations at IFT 2018

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NutriFusion will be attending this year’s IFT 2018 show in Chicago, Illinois at McCormick Place during July 15 – July 18, 2018. The team at NutriFusion has been hard at work since last year’s show in Las Vegas to unleash new product and company innovations to better meet the needs of customers in the packaged food and beverage industry.

new standard blends nutrifusion innovations IFT 2018Updated Standard GrandFusion Blends

NutriFusion had to make update the ingredients (fruits and vegetables) in the standard GrandFusion blends to keep prices the same and still deliver the same quality product that customers expect. New ingredients include avocado, banana, cantaloupe, maitake mushroom, and more!

New Nutrition Facts Label Compliant Blends

NutriFusion has now officially launched the 2016 FSMA compliant blends to conform with new vitamin and mineral standards established with the new FDA nutrition facts label.

Complete Carbon 14 Testing

NutriFusion listened and answered customer demands for carbon 14 testing. The company completed the testing on all products, demonstrating the natural aspects of GrandFusion blends.

SQF certified innovation manufacturing food ingredients fruit vegetable powders vitamins minerals

New Manufacturing Facility

Another huge advancement for the company was the opening of a new state of the art manufacturing facility with SQF/FSI certification in the United States.

Plant-Based Minerals

NutriFusion’s R&D made a major breakthrough in 2018 with the development and stabilization of plant-based minerals. NutriFusion now offers the plant-based minerals in the NF-2371 blend and other custom blends.

EU standards nutrients standards vitamins mineralsNew Products to Meet EU Standards to Launch in 2019

As NutriFusion has grown into a global provider of nutrient dense, fruit & vegetable powders, the company has to conform with nutritional standards around the world. The company will launch a suite of products to conform with EU Standard in 2019.