Robert Garrison

New product introductions deliver fun twists on taste and texture—and still others offer dietary health benefits for those still wanting familiar comfort.

From the refrigerated case to the freezer, dairy processors old and new, big and small are addressing every on-trend aspect of dietary needs, better-for-you functional health, global flavors and snacking.

Circana’s 39th annual “Eating Patterns in America” report highlighted the growing year-over-year trend toward at-home dining, with 86% of eating occasions sourced from home.

Natural products industry sales were expected to hit nearly $320B in 2024 with growth across virtually every department. In advance of Natural Products Expo West, Prepared Foods covers everything from innovation to ingredients with Scott Dicker, market insights director at SPINS LLC, Chicago.

Of seven plant-based dairy categories, only plant-based creamers posted annual dollar and unit sales gains in 2023, according to SPINS data customized for the Good Food Institute (GFI) and Plant Based Foods Association (PBFA).

How does the nation’s largest refrigerated foods processor mine the relationship between culinary inspiration and R&D innovation? Prepared Foods talks trends and tastes with Reser’s Fine Foods executives Chef Sean Dwigans, Culinary Business Development Manager; and Chef Todd Ketterman,  Culinary Manager.

Prepared Foods explores natural and organic product trends with Kristine Carey, executive director at Naturally Colorado, part of The Naturally Network.

Prepared Foods talks with Atomo Coffee Founder & CEO Andy Kleitsch about Atomo’s upcycled beanless coffee.

Prepared Foods discussses upcycling's progress—and prospects for 2025 with Amanda Oenbring, chief executive officer at the Upcycled Food Association; and Kathryn Britton director of innovation for UFA’s certifying partner, Where Food Comes From, Inc.

In far northwest Washington, just a few miles below Canada, rural Lynden, Wash., produces approximately 90% of the nation’s annual frozen red raspberry crop. Geographically, it’s a world away from downtown Chicago—the striking contrast of Mount Baker towering over green farm fields to Chicago skyscrapers towering over a broad metropolitan area.