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Articles by William A. Roberts, Jr.

Hope for the Fredos

This month sees the latest edition of Prepared Foods’ New Products Annual, a chance to revisit some of the products released over the past year.

William A. Roberts, Jr.

March 13, 2014

This month sees the latest edition of Prepared Foods’ New Products Annual, a chance to revisit some of the products released over the past year.

Free and Clear

Consumers turn to allergen-free foods with increasing frequency, and for reasons beyond allergies, as some believe a gluten-free diet can help them manage weight and is a healthier option.

William A. Roberts, Jr.

February 17, 2014

In the summer of 2013, the U.S. FDA published a new regulation defining “gluten free” for voluntary food labeling.

Adult Beverages Embrace Sweet Side

Alcoholic beverages lure consumers with a host of flavors, some previously unseen in this category, all part of efforts to attract those looking for an adventurous take on the traditional tipple.

William A. Roberts, Jr.

January 22, 2014

Consumer interest in sweeter flavors continues to grow, and alcoholic beverage makers are adjusting their offerings to meet those expectations

With consumers expecting new flavors that broaden their culinary horizons, many manufacturers need only look south, though admittedly fairly far south -- to the spicy and sweet cuisines of Latin America and the Caribbean.

William A. Roberts, Jr.

November 20, 2013

Clearly, Latin and Caribbean cuisine is not solely tailored for U.S. Hispanics.

2013 SPIRIT OF INNOVATION AWARDS | RETAIL & FOODSERVICE WINNERS

2013 Spirit of Innovation Awards

This year’s Spirit of Innovation Award winners include an allergen-free vegetarian muffin, dirty rice, a bacon-wrapped and cream cheese-stuffed shrimp, and a uniquely sourced organic water.

William A. Roberts, Jr.

October 15, 2013

Prepared Foods and award sponsor Ventura Foods honor the teamwork that has led to innovative food and beverage launches during the past year.

Fruit Flavors Find Favor

Fruit can contribute a health halo with healthful benefits, particularly superfruits; add more “local” appeal; and/or give new products a more premium positioning.

William A. Roberts, Jr.

October 15, 2013

Fruit can add a distinctive, consumer-pleasing flavor to a host of products, but fruits are capable of so much more. They can add a healthful benefit and serve to provide products with a healthy halo.

Lead, Follow or Get out of the Way

William A. Roberts, Jr.

October 15, 2013

The headline is attributed to a range of individuals, from Patton to Thomas Paine, but it came to mind recently when the FDA (some would say finally) reached a decision about the standard for gluten-free in foods and beverages.

The Meal Deal

Consumer expectations for meals differ, even if the prepared meal purchase frequency is consistent across age demographics.

William A. Roberts, Jr.

September 19, 2013

Make no mistake, when the subject is meals, the chief competition for manufacturers is the restaurant.

Natural Selection

The 2013 edition of Natural Products Expo West saw record numbers of attendees and visitors, but the real news was the varied assortment of new, cutting-edge foods and beverages.

William A. Roberts, Jr.

September 19, 2013

This year’s Natural Products Expo West registered record numbers of both attendees and exhibitors.

Just Weight

In the process of meeting consumer expectations, manufacturers turn to a host of options to increase satiety and the healthy reputation of their offerings.

William A. Roberts, Jr.

July 24, 2013

An obesity crisis has brought with it a variety of health concerns and conditions, but consumers are increasingly aware of the role of weight management in preventing or circumventing these wellness hurdles.