Prepared Foods Editor Bob Garrison recaps Natural Products Expo West trends, tastes and technologies with Carolina Sasson, Chief Operating Officer at Mission Field. Mission Field, Denver, is a global consultant specializing in food & beverage innovation, strategy and insights.
Sasson uses this exclusive podcast to talk about five new trends including a rise in “retro packaging” designs, as demonstrated by Just Brutal Chips and Beekeeper Coffee. Another trend involves brands and products that promise a “feel good” experience. Demonstrating this trend were such products as Wellthy (gummies, powders), I Eat My Greens (soup), FitJoy Foods (crackers, snacks), and Feel Good Foods (frozen appetizers). A third trend involves the wave of non-alcoholic beverages and mixers. Examples here included TÖST sparkling teas (white, rose wine alternatives), Guinness 0%, and non-alcoholic mixers from Hella Cocktail Company. Women’s health is a fourth key trend area, as demonstrated by products such as MenoWell menopause bars and Mixhers supplements. Last but not least are new products showcasing natural sweeteners such as honey and dates. Among the many new offerings here are Hive₂O’s Hard Honey beverages and Beekeeper Coffee.