Consumers trying to maintain or improve their health are increasingly seeking specialty food and non-food alternatives. Whether they are organic, gluten-free, dye-free or lactose-free, these products can be costly, but a new survey of special needs store brands items shows significant savings for consumers.

Shifting household dynamics are changing the way Americans shop for groceries. Most notably is the diversification of the primary store shopper with moms no longer always assuming this role exclusively, according to market research publisher Packaged Facts in the recently released report, Retail Food Marketing Trends in the U.S.: Technology, Mobile, and Social Media.

Turns out that Americans are eating their fruits and vegetables as well as other fresh foods and beverages, reports The NPD Group, a leading global information company. The percent of all in-home eating occasions that include fresh foods, like fruit, vegetables, and dairy items, is almost back to levels seen 30 years ago, according to NPD food consumption research.

The Consumer Goods Forum announced its commitment to tackling the global food waste challenge by agreeing to halve food waste within the operations of its 400 retailer and manufacturers members by 2025. Food waste is an enormous environmental, social and economic challenge. A third of food calories produced are never eaten.

Clean label has moved beyond being a trend and is now regarded as standard in the food industry.

America's Foodies have a well-known love for the type of culinary adventure and food tourism that takes the taste buds on a journey through the new, the novel, and the unique.

Coming soon to a store near you – new ways to enjoy beets, flower-infused drinks and snacks, and the spirit of cocktails away from the bar, according to an expert panel of trendspotters. Panel members made their way through thousands of products to sleuth out the newest trends in specialty food at the Summer Fancy Food Show.

Beer connoisseurs know that that Belgian sours are renowned for their intentionally tart or sour taste that has taken beer to a whole new level.

The Consumer Goods Forum launched a new Health & Wellness Toolkit and digital platform - http://www.consumergoodsforbetterlives.com. The Toolkit is an extension of the CGF's commitment to support its members in the implementation of its Health & Wellness Resolutions and Commitments. It will provide real-life examples of what members have achieved already and offer ideas for companies looking to take the next step. The announcement was made during the CGF's annual Global Summit currently being held in New York.