Prepared Foods Editorial Staff

Nearly 1,000 food industry professionals will gather in Kalamazoo, Mich., March 24–25, 2026 for the WMU Food Marketing Conference. The event blends executive insight, emerging talent and timely topics—from AI to health and wellness—shaping food and CPG marketing.

"The Dietary Guidelines affirm what soybean farmers have long delivered – a safe, sustainable and nutrient-rich food that helps nourish American families," said Brent Gatton, United Soybean Board Chair and Kentucky soybean farmer. "We appreciate the emphasis on farmers and ranchers as part of the solution in building a healthier nation, because real food starts on the farm. Providing high-quality nutrition to consumers has always been our top priority."

Attendees are invited to visit booth #C27155 and meet with Kemin Food Technologies – North America experts to learn how the business unit’s innovative ingredient solutions can help processors increase yield, extend shelf life, and ensure consumer satisfaction with appealing flavor, color, and sensory attributes—all while staying competitive in a dynamic market.

The $26M investment in Erlanger – the company's flagship flavors facility in the United States – will help customers meet these consumer expectations by increasing the capacity, delivery, supply and consistency of ADM's naturally derived color and flavor solutions.

EcoVadis, a leading global provider of business sustainability ratings, has awarded the EXBERRY color supplier a Platinum medal. The achievement marks another important step forward for the company following Silver and Gold medals in the previous two assessment periods.

JonnyPops is expanding its No Sugar Added Minis line with a new electrolyte-enhanced frozen pop designed to support hydration for all ages. The launch reflects growing demand for functional benefits delivered through familiar, family-friendly formats.

Roxberry is expanding nationally with placement in Walmart’s Modern Soda aisle, introducing a kid-focused option to a category largely built for adults. The move highlights how better-for-you soda platforms are extending into family-friendly formats to meet unmet demand.

New analysis from L.E.K. Consulting suggests the US may have reached “peak calorie,” with total food and beverage consumption expected to remain largely flat over the next decade. As volume tailwinds fade, future growth will depend on innovation, pricing discipline and operational excellence rather than increased consumption.

SWRL has officially launched in the US, introducing a makgeolli-inspired seltzer that embraces cloudiness, mouthfeel and fermentation. With a swirl-to-sip ritual and rice-forward profile, the brand signals how the maturing hard seltzer category is evolving beyond clarity toward sensory experience.

Horizon Organic has launched Real Dairy Creamers, a simply crafted line made with just four organic ingredients and bold flavor profiles. The debut reflects growing demand for clean-label options as consumers seek coffeehouse-style experiences at home.