Food and Beverage Top Stories

RSS

From protein bars to ice cream, new launches spotlight chocolate flavors, brand collaborations and innovative formats across snacks and desserts.

Protein may be the darling of every product pitch, but new data suggests the category’s momentum may be nearing saturation—and that emerging consumer demands could upend today’s formulations. Are brands innovating strategically, or just chasing claims in a marketplace that’s about to shift?

Chief Editor Bob Garrison talks protein beverage formulation trends with Jason Dompeling, senior manager, product development, at Imbibe, a Chicago-based flavor supplier and product development company.

Formulators are exploring proteins, micronutrients, and functional botanicals to address bone, brain, heart, and immune health as consumer demand for healthy aging solutions grows.

Sports nutrition is moving beyond protein powders and into the science of cellular energy. These next-generation ingredients promise better recovery, improved endurance and longer-lasting performance.

Formulators are turning to hydrocolloids and enzymes to solve texture and stability challenges in plant-based dairy, meat and beverage applications.

Prepared Foods has selected six new food and beverage products introduced in August 2025. Vote below to let us know which new product is your favorite!

Food and snack makers are rolling out new nut-forward innovations, from Catalina Crunch Protein Granola and Lindt’s Dubai Style Chocolate to Diamond’s gluten-free pie crusts and Graeter’s Bake Shop ice cream collection. These launches highlight how brands are merging indulgence, functionality and global flavor inspiration to meet evolving consumer tastes.

Snack makers are rolling out a wave of new nut and trail mix products, from Diamond of California’s pecan snacks to Blue Diamond’s Cherry Slurpee Almonds. Co-branded launches with PLANTERS, Dunkin’, and others highlight how brands are leaning into flavor innovation and on-the-go convenience.

Americans are more focused on protein than ever, yet most don’t know how much they actually need each day. New IFIC survey data reveals a gap between enthusiasm and understanding, creating opportunities for clearer guidance from brands and health experts.