Economic headwinds, including inflation and the threat of a recession, are setting up new hurdles for operators to navigate. But, despite a challenging start to 2023 expected, the latter part of the year should bring about optimism as the industry emerges from high inflation and a soft economy.  

FABI Awardees receive industry-wide exposure before, during and after the Show. Further, awarded products will be acknowledged throughout the Show floor with prominent signage, and priority placement in on-site media opportunities with broadcast media. 

MGP Ingredients, Inc., launched of Proterra® Crumbles, a line of chef-seasoned plant-based protein crumbles developed for foodservice operations. Ready to serve in just minutes, Proterra pea protein crumbles can help cafeterias meet growing consumer demand for plant-based foods.

Last year saw Kellogg introduce MorningStar Farms® Incogmeato® Homestyle Chik'n Tenders so restaurant operators could add plant-based protein to the menu. This back-of-house product can be quickly fried or baked and used in any and every daypart.

Here’s a story where you could say the “i” stands for innovation and the “t’s” refer to taste and texture. It took Hormel Foods about two and half years to develop Happy Little Plants Meatballs, one of the foodservice industry’s first plant-based meatball products. Hormel launched the product last July and showcased it at this year’s National Restaurant Association exhibition.  

The ground-breaking new product makes it easier than ever before to have ripe avocado spread on-hand, regardless of the season, for a variety of quick serve dishes.

Perhaps I’m in the minority, but I love surprises—especially when they are of the culinary sort. When Prepared Foods asked me to write about future food trends, it led me to think about all the change our food and beverage industry has endured during the past few years. I also am thinking how we’ve adapted so quickly, and with such extraordinary ingenuity. I started to reflect on what surprised me the most and what sort of change we can expect in the future.