Specialty food curators at The Fresh Market have to make buys months in advance of when consumers will see the products on the shelves, so it is imperative they stay ahead of the curve and know what guests will be shopping for well in advance.  

Inspired to create something unique and extraordinary, this start-up’s vision stems from passion to bring a heart healthy beverages to the masses.

Each year, more than 50 Whole Foods Market team members including local foragers, regional and global buyers and culinary experts thoughtfully compile the report based on decades of experience and expertise in product sourcing, studying consumer preferences and participating in food and wellness industry exhibitions worldwide.

Foodservice operators have a lot of opportunity to appeal to various need states by offering beverages that are healthier, create a unique experience, reduce environmental impact, or incorporate all three for the "holy grail" of menu options.

As reported by BDS Analytics, consumer spending on cannabis-based foods and beverages reached an estimated $1 billion in 2017 in the U.S. and Canada—and is projected to grow to more than $4.1 billion in those countries by 2022.

The survey highlights that more Americans blame carbohydrates, and specifically sugar, for weight gain. Although sugars continue to be the most cited cause of weight gain (33%), carbs ranked second at 25%, up from 20% in 2017, the survey states.

Hop Chronic IPA will only be available at licensed dispensaries and only to people who have a medical recommendation for the use of cannabis. Hop Chronic IPA will be available in a variety of THC and CBD potencies.

Brands are leveraging beverages to differentiate through signature drinks like mocktails, over-the-top options like extreme milkshakes and better-for-you options.

Today, cross-category beverages are becoming increasingly more available as brands attempt to cater to consumers’ better-for-you demands while also delivering innovative new flavor options.