The COVID-19 pandemic has been a disaster for so many industries, but snack food products actually prospered during the chaos that defined 2020.

Ringing in the New Year is a time for reflection and re-evaluation of life choices. Many consumers start by setting goals for self-improvement to make the coming year better than the last. After a tremulous 2020, improving overall health and wellness is at the top of the list.

Eat the Change, the company on a mission to create chef-crafted and nutrient-dense snacks that help mitigate climate change, announced the national launch of its first packaged product, Eat the Change Organic Mushroom Jerky

Flavorchem, an established leader in the manufacturing of flavor, ingredient, and color solutions released its 2021 Trends & Flavor Forecast. 

Ocean Spray Cranberries, Inc., the agricultural cooperative owned by more than 700 farmer families, introduced Ocean Spray® Cranberry Seeds, a new innovative, upcycled, and clean-label product harvested from cranberries certified as sustainably grown and offering an array of powerful nutritional benefits to support a healthy lifestyle.

Whole Foods Market global buyers and experts unveiled their top 10 anticipated food trends for 2021 in the retailer’s sixth annual trends predictions. Hard kombucha, upcycled foods, leveled-up breakfasts and jerky made from produce are among the food influences expected to take off in the next year.

Tia Lupita, a Bay Area Mexican food brand, debuted an upcycled tortilla, the latest addition to its popular grain-free cactus tortilla line which has gained market share against major category players over recent months.

Consumers increasingly expect companies to invest in sustainability, and it's no longer just about recyclable packaging. It's about making the entire product lifecycle sustainable, from agricultural practices to resource-efficient factories, to food waste and packaging waste reduction.

Riff Cold Brew has expanded its Alter Ego line of cold-brew teas that are made from up-cycled coffee fruit (cascara). 

Today's consumers are weighing taste adventure and convenience with new considerations related to what's better for me (diet and personal health) and better for the planet (ethics, sustainability).