Prepared Foods

PF April 2026 cover

April 2026


ON THE COVER:
► Brain-Boosting Beverages

FEATURES:
► Spotlight on Immunity Opportunities
► Upcycled Ingredients Gain Ground
► New Meat, Poultry & Seafood Products

Cover Story

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Mentally Beneficial Foods

Formulating Beverages for Improved Mood and Cognitive Health

Functional beverages blend nootropics, adaptogens, and flavor-driven experiences to support mood, focus, and overall cognitive well-being
Lu Ann Williams
Lu Ann Williams
April 13, 2026

Consumers are turning to beverages that support mood, focus, and cognitive health. Functional ingredients and indulgent flavors are converging to deliver both mental wellness and sensory satisfaction.


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Features

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Teton Waters Ranch Refrigerated Meatballs

New Protein Products Focus on Flavor, Convenience

From refrigerated meatballs to value-added meats, brands expand offerings for at-home meals
April 23, 2026

A wave of new protein products—from grass-fed meatballs to flavored SPAM and ready-to-cook chicken—highlights continued innovation in flavor and convenience. For product developers, the lineup reflects growing demand for quick-prep formats, global flavor influences and value-driven protein solutions.


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immune-supporting botanical ingredients

Botanicals Suffer Blurred Line Between Immune Boosters, 'Boasters'

Formulation challenges and bioavailability gaps complicate efficacy of trending ingredients
Dr. Dana McCurdy
Dana McCurdy, PhD
April 21, 2026

Botanical ingredients like curcumin, ashwagandha and quercetin continue to gain traction in immune health, but questions remain around efficacy, dosing and bioavailability. For product developers, the research underscores the importance of formulation strategies, standardization and ingredient synergies to deliver meaningful functional benefits.


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Upcycled products

Upcycled Innovation Gains Momentum

Expo West showcases new products, ingredients and growth across upcycled food
Amanda Oenbring
April 16, 2026

With market projections reaching $2.47 billion by 2036, upcycled products are gaining traction across categories. For product developers, the space offers opportunities to reduce waste while unlocking new ingredient functionality and value streams.


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