Title: Exploring Jackfruit as a Sustainable Alternative to Cocoa Amidst Global Supply Concerns

Dive Brief: Dive Insight: Concerns about the global cocoa supply potentially falling short of demand are linked to persistently low and fluctuating prices, exacerbated by the threat of swollen shoot virus disease and inadequate warehouse storage facilities in key cocoa-producing regions, including West Africa, South America, and Asia. The International Cocoa Organization reports that around … Read more

“Persistent Lead Contamination in Imported Spices: The Need for Enhanced Safety Measures and Inspections”

Lead contamination remains a persistent issue in spices imported into the U.S. Last year, Spices USA discovered that Indian turmeric contained dangerously high levels of lead, a problem that also affects other spices like fenugreek, cardamom, and chili powder. Since the implementation of the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) in April 2017, importers have been … Read more

“Exploring the Potential of Cranberry-Derived Prebiotics: A Key to Gut Health and Nutrient Absorption”

Ocean Spray provided the purified xyloglucans and contributed partial funding for the study. The development of a prebiotic derived from cranberry skins could represent a profitable opportunity for the cranberry juice producer if its health benefits are established. A particular area of interest may be the compound’s role in synbiotics, which are combinations of probiotics … Read more

“Spicing Up Snacks: How Flavor Innovations Cater to Millennial Tastes and Health Trends”

Flavorful innovations in the snack industry are consistently ahead of the curve, particularly when it comes to appealing to millennials who crave adventurous tastes. Snack manufacturers are actively redefining their approach to heat, spice, and exotic flavors. Last year, PepsiCo’s Frito-Lay launched a series of international flavors for its Lay’s potato chips, introducing varieties such … Read more

“Spicing Up the Market: The Explosive Growth of the U.S. Hot Sauce Industry and Its Health Benefits”

The U.S. hot sauce market has become significantly larger and more diverse, with companies exploring various types of chili peppers from around the globe—such as habanero, ghost pepper, and chipotle—alongside an array of fruity flavors. Additionally, a niche market has developed for those adventurous eaters who enjoy exceptionally spicy peppers. Hot sauces aimed at this … Read more

“Glyphosate Controversy: Navigating Consumer Concerns and Regulatory Challenges in the Food Industry”

The application of glyphosate has sparked considerable controversy in the food industry. Some critics contend that the herbicide may lead to cancer in humans, although scientists have expressed differing opinions following a four-day meeting held by the Environmental Protection Agency last year. In 2015, the World Health Organization classified glyphosate as “probably carcinogenic,” but a … Read more

“Transforming Tastes: The Evolution of the Sauce and Condiment Market Towards Healthier, Authentic Options”

The sauce and condiment market has evolved significantly and is now enjoying the benefits of this diversification. This industry has had to reassess some of its offerings as many consumers are increasingly seeking healthier alternatives. Millennials, who account for 23.4% of the U.S. population according to Census Bureau data, are particularly inclined towards sauces and … Read more

“Enhancing Vanilla Sustainability: A Collaborative Initiative for Quality Sourcing and Competitive Advantage”

The project represents a mutually beneficial opportunity for the companies involved, which have pledged to purchase the premium quality vanilla produced. By gaining preferential access to a reliable supply of this essential ingredient, Mars, Dannon, and Firmenich are likely to secure a significant competitive edge in a market where sourcing quality vanilla has become increasingly … Read more

“Coconut Products: The Rising Star in Health-Conscious Eating and Gluten-Free Alternatives”

Coconut products gained mainstream attention a few years back with the surge in popularity of coconut water as a natural sports drink. Since then, they have soared in popularity due to their alleged health benefits, appealing taste, versatility, and unique texture. Coconut is regarded as a healthy alternative ingredient in a variety of products, from … Read more

“Exploring CIFI’s Innovative Sweet Potato Juices and Carolina Sweet Sweetener: A Health-Conscious Approach to Natural Ingredients”

CIFI provides a variety of sweet potato juices designed for various applications. These include options that preserve a higher nutrient content, a syrup-like texture similar to traditional sugar syrup, and a clarified juice suitable for clear beverages. Additionally, the sweet potato ingredient can be combined with other fruits and vegetables to lower the added sugar … Read more