Futurist Nancy Giordano opens Prepared Foods’ annual predictions issue with a look at the “next” normal for food and beverage processors.

Vegetarianism and flexitarianism continue to grow in popularity, driven by health concerns as well as demand for greater sustainability and animal welfare. This means that alternative protein ingredients will continue to be of high interest to consumers, and therefore also to food and beverage formulators.

Wicked Foods, a plant-based food brand and UK market leader in plant-based meals, snacks and ingredients has announced the Summer 2021 launch of its pioneering product line in the US. The brand was created by world-renowned chefs and brothers Derek and Chad Sarno, who are recognized globally for their innovative approach to delicious chef-driven, plant-based cuisine.

FrieslandCampina Ingredients Food & Beverages identifies “Conscious Indulgence” as the key global market trend in its 2020-2021 Trend Report. Now that the dust is settling from the first wave of the global pandemic and the contours of a new world are starting to take shape, the company shares its vision on where the industry is heading in a new normal.

In using its business as a force for good, Kalsec has proven its commitment to socially and environmentally responsible practices relating to energy supplies, waste and water use, worker compensation, diversity, and corporate transparency.

As part of ongoing efforts to increase the availability of sustainably sourced ingredients, Cargill will become one of North America’s first large-scale suppliers of segregated palm oil certified by the Roundtable for Sustainable Palm Oil (RSPO). Beginning December 2020, all palm oil production from the company’s Charlotte, North Carolina refinery will be solely dedicated to providing the sustainably sourced product.

The range of plant-based chocolate does not cause any negative reactions, such as blood sugar or insulin spikes and gastrointestinal side effects, and is also Rainforest Alliance and KETO certified, as well as registered with the Vegan Society. 

ADM, a global leader in nutrition and partner to the world’s leading consumer brands, today released its view on the five food and beverage trends that will impact the way consumers eat and drink in the new year. 

Whole Foods Market global buyers and experts unveiled their top 10 anticipated food trends for 2021 in the retailer’s sixth annual trends predictions. Hard kombucha, upcycled foods, leveled-up breakfasts and jerky made from produce are among the food influences expected to take off in the next year.

For the last half century, US animal agriculture has focused primarily on improving productivity, efficiency and throughput, resulting in increasing supplies of commodities that have helped assure a safe, abundant US food supply and growing export markets. However, a new report from The Center for Food Integrity (CFI) shows a pivotal shift in cultural and market expectations for animal protein, and four emerging trends where the industry can innovate.