While taste and price consistently have been the top two factors that impact consumers’ food and beverage purchases (90% and 73% respectively), healthfulness in 2014 almost entirely closed the gap with price.

Among the top predictions, local consumers will seek out more local food, as well as organic and healthier options.

After a year of sluggish economic growth in 2013, it is no surprise that consumers are beginning the new year with a conservative outlook.

Not only does filling up a food cart while on an empty stomach lead to out of control snacking in the short term, it may condemn the shopper to an entire week's worth of unhealthy eating.

Eight out of 10 (78% of) European shoppers believe internet and mobile technology could improve their food shopping experience in the future.

Despite a shopping list being a tool to stay on budget and eliminate unnecessary purchases, research shows that nine out of 10 shoppers still buy items not on their list.

Shoppers are feeling the pinch of higher food prices at the supermarket, and most consumers are convinced they will be shelling out even more cash for groceries next year.

According to the HealthFocus^® Trend study, 77% of shoppers are interested in natural foods.