“Exploring the Rise of Plant-Based Proteins: Meeting Consumer Demand for Health and Sustainability”

As consumers increasingly focus on the nutritional value and sustainability of food products, traditional meats are being pushed aside. Many are turning to plant-based options for better health benefits with a reduced environmental and animal impact. In response, manufacturers are striving to meet this demand, and this month, we are delving into the plant protein … Read more

“Challenges to FDA’s Self-Regulation of GRAS Ingredients: A Call for Increased Oversight and Consumer Protection”

It appears somewhat precarious for the FDA to depend on food companies to self-regulate concerning the safety of ingredients, yet this practice has been in place for many years. The recent lawsuit advocates for consumer protection and seems to have significant validity at first glance. Since its proposal in 1997, the FDA’s final rule, which … Read more

“New AAP Guidelines Challenge Perceptions of Fruit Juice as a Healthy Option for Children Amid Declining Sales”

In the report, the AAP also states that juice can be part of a healthy diet for older children but emphasizes that it provides no additional benefits compared to whole fruit. This marks yet another setback for fruit juice manufacturers, who have experienced declining sales from 2008 to 2013 due to competition from beverages like … Read more

Emerging Flavor Trends in Confectionery: Wrigley and Mars Explore Savory Innovations Amidst Hershey’s Snackfection Campaign

Dive Insight: It appears that Wrigley is attempting to leverage ingredient trends that are gaining momentum in the savory snack sector. Spicy flavors have surged in popularity over the last few years, as consumer interest in authentic ethnic flavor profiles continues to grow. However, it will be intriguing to observe whether this trend translates well … Read more

“Kale’s Rise to Superfood Status: Can Drinking Vinegars Achieve Similar Fame?”

According to Nielsen data, kale has experienced remarkable sales growth over the past year. Frozen breakfast items featuring kale saw a staggering 391% increase in sales from 2016 to 2017. Additionally, sales of kale-based vitamins and supplements rose by 125%, while pasta sauces containing this superfood enjoyed a 60% boost during the same timeframe. The … Read more

“The Resurgence of Healthy Fats: How Olive Oil and Specialty Oils are Transforming American Diets”

The low-fat diet trend that dominated the 1980s seems to be fading as consumers increasingly recognize the importance of various fats and oils in a healthy diet. According to a report from the Italian farmers’ group Coldiretti, U.S. olive oil consumption—a key player in the rise of healthful oils—has surged by 250% since 1990, signaling … Read more

“Raising Awareness: Mitigating Carcinogenic Risks of Well-Cooked Meats Through Cooking Methods and Antioxidant-Rich Herbs”

The World Health Organization (WHO) classifies heterocyclic amines (HCAs) as known carcinogens, yet public awareness regarding the risks associated with well-cooked meats—particularly those that are pan-fried, grilled, barbecued, or charred—is just beginning to develop. Despite media coverage highlighting the carcinogenic properties of cooked and processed meats, it wasn’t until 2015 that the Dietary Guidelines Advisory … Read more

“Shifting Trends: The Impact of Women Ditching Dairy on Health and Nutrition”

In recent years, an increasing number of women have chosen to eliminate dairy from their diets. This shift is largely influenced by concerns about bovine growth hormones, animal welfare, and digestive issues, coupled with a significantly enhanced variety of milk and dairy alternatives. Women, particularly after menopause, face a higher risk of osteoporosis and reduced … Read more

“Navigating the Sweetener Shift: Consumer Preferences and Industry Innovations Amid Health Concerns”

With sugar making headlines for negative reasons, manufacturers are on the lookout for alternatives. However, many consumers remain wary of artificial sweeteners. Natural sources of sweetness, such as honey and agave, present additional options, but these are also high-calorie choices that can contribute to obesity, much like sugar. By July 2018, manufacturers will be required … Read more