“These brands went above and beyond to reach their guests but also give them new and exciting products during a challenging time for restaurants and consumers alike,” said Ramon Melgarejo, global managing director of NielsenIQ BASES. “In our second year of the Menu Innovation Awards, we’re excited to include Canada in this year’s North America awards and recognize the hard work of so many great brands.”

Farrell brings more than a decade of food industry experience to CBCI from top tier CPG companies, including PepsiCo and Unilever. Most recently, she was the R&D manager for a prominent Chicago bread and bakery company.

New Wave Foods, an innovator in sustainable plant-based seafood, partnered with Chef Brian Duffy, known to many for his appearances on Bar Rescue, The Today Show, Food Network, HGTV and more, to spread the word on New Wave Foods' plant-based shrimp to foodservice operators.

Subway renewed its focus on strategically growing its non-traditional business as part of its ongoing transformation journey to deliver better food and a better guest experience.

Economic headwinds, including inflation and the threat of a recession, are setting up new hurdles for operators to navigate. But, despite a challenging start to 2023 expected, the latter part of the year should bring about optimism as the industry emerges from high inflation and a soft economy.  

 In July, the Mind Blown Crab Cakes, Dusted Shrimp and Scallops became available nationwide at all Sprouts Farmers Market locations, marking the brand’s first national distribution.

With OREOiD, a cookie can be easily and quickly customized by operators who choose the crème filling, fudge dip and sprinkle colors, followed by their one-of-a-kind message and artwork. 

Ready to roll onto bakery shelves after thawing, Pillsbury Cinnamon Rolls provide a low-labor way for retail bakeries to offer cinnamon rolls with homemade taste from the top brand in the category. 

FABI Awardees receive industry-wide exposure before, during and after the Show. Further, awarded products will be acknowledged throughout the Show floor with prominent signage, and priority placement in on-site media opportunities with broadcast media. 

MGP Ingredients, Inc., launched of Proterra® Crumbles, a line of chef-seasoned plant-based protein crumbles developed for foodservice operations. Ready to serve in just minutes, Proterra pea protein crumbles can help cafeterias meet growing consumer demand for plant-based foods.