According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the number of children with food allergies jumped 18% between 1997-2007, and researchers at Northwestern University's Feinberg School of Medicine in Chicago found 8% of U.S. children under the age of 18 have at least one food allergy.
The troubled economy has brought about a number of changes in the way people shop for food. Companies that engage the whole family in shopping; recognize the growing number of shoppers with food allergies; and use innovative marketing methods are most likely to meet with success.
The economic malaise has brought a return to cooking at home, and with that has come a boon for a number of industry categories, not the least of which is in marinades and sauces. While the segments comprising that category vary, bold flavors and authentically ethnic profiles are proving their worth among sauces and marinades.
With New Year’s Eve and its traditional libations now officially in the history books, it might seem a bit soon to take too close of a look at the alcoholic beverages segment. However, Mardi Gras is just over a month away, so it may well be a perfect time to examine the latest releases and news in the category.
The Private Label Manufacturers Association’s (PLMA) 2011 Private Label Trade Show was held in Rosemont, Ill., in mid-November, with a wealth of products marketed around such notable trends as ethnic cuisine, restaurant-quality foods, wellness and convenience.
The year in foodservice beverages saw the rise of frozen refreshments, as major beverage chains turned to the chilled treat. Coffee remained a stalwart of the category, but milk continues to face opposition, particularly in school cafeterias, which saw a pair of major launches geared around health and convenience.
Each year, Prepared Foods honors the food and beverage industry’s most ground-breaking innovations, as well as the teamwork behind those products. This year’s awards, sponsored by the American Egg Board, were presented at the Prepared Foods’ New Products Conference in September and recognized a range of products--from entrees to desserts.
The 29th Annual New Products Conference was held September 12-14 in Naples, Fla., with a range of speakers and topics addressing the latest trends and expectations of food and beverage consumers.
