The market for fats and oils continues to grow. Packaged Facts estimates the segment reached $9.2 billion in sales by the end of 2011 and forecasts it will hit $10.6 billion by 2016, buoyed by research supporting the role of specific types of fat in maintaining health.
In a cost-conscious environment, restaurant operators are using sauces and seasonings to bring new flavor profiles to their usual dishes. While traditional sauces, such as barbecue, gravy and mayonnaise, are still popular, chefs are creating new, signature flavors that sometimes include ethnic ingredients.