Articles by Prepared Foods Editorial Staff

US restaurant and foodservice sales are forecast to hit $1.55 trillion in 2026, with operators expected to add more than 100,000 jobs. Even as demand holds, margin pressure from labor, food and operating costs is accelerating investment in workforce development and technology.

Purely Elizabeth is entering the beauty-from-within space with Purely Glow Salted Vanilla Pistachio Granola, launched alongside New York Fashion Week. The limited-edition SKU taps rising collagen and pistachio demand, reinforcing food’s growing role in functional wellness routines.

Rodale Institute has announced the Hirshberg Research Endowment Fund to provide permanent support for its chief scientific officer and research priorities. The fund aims to strengthen long-term innovation, scientific integrity and growth across the organic agriculture sector.

7-Eleven has selected 26 early-stage brands to participate in its 2026 Brands with Heart showcase, offering founders a pathway to potential regional and national distribution. The cohort reflects rising demand for functional ingredients, inventive formats and brand-led innovation tailored to convenience retail.

Cedar’s Foods is introducing a Limited Batch Pineapple Jalapeño Hommus that pairs tropical sweetness with a spicy kick. The launch reflects continued interest in sweet-heat flavor profiles and limited-time offerings to drive trial in the refrigerated dips category.

As families look for alternatives to sugary drinks, parents are finding new ways to make water more appealing and accessible for kids. From right-sized portions to playful packaging and routine-based habits, small changes are helping hydration stick in 2026.

The thin, blend-able oat milk sheets point to growing interest in lightweight, ambient dairy alternatives that lower shipping costs and extend shelf life while maintaining customizable functionality.

CJ Schwan’s is pairing Red Baron and bibigo to introduce a Korean BBQ-style frozen pizza exclusive to Kroger. The collaboration reflects how brands are using global flavor mashups and limited-time offerings to drive freezer aisle excitement.

A new IFIC Spotlight Survey shows that while interest in fiber is high, most Americans still fall short on intake and remain confused about where fiber comes from. The findings highlight an opportunity for clearer communication, better product cues and practical guidance as fiber gains renewed attention in wellness culture.

Genius Gourmet is building momentum with its SKIPPY-inspired protein snacks as distribution expands across grocery and convenience channels. The lineup blends nostalgic peanut butter flavor with protein-forward formats designed to meet modern snacking needs without sacrificing taste.