This March, I (excitedly) attended Expo West for the first time. I would agree with many that this show is an absolute must for anyone in the natural food sector.
All kinds of brands exhibit, from the smaller budding names to the top dogs. All of the delicious samples made me excited for some new products that I will be able to get at the grocery store this next year.
Walking around, it was quite clear that there were a few very popular trends, repeated aisle after aisle. Young and old brands were climbing upon the trend bandwagon, staying on top of the latest and greatest.
And you… how will you stay ahead of the game? Well, to start, you should know the emerging trends! Here they are, in no particular order.
Non-GMO Project Verified
On first glance, I would say about 90-95% of exhibition booths at this show had a Non-GMO Project Verified sign showing. They’re proving that they’ve gone through the process to obtain the seal for the fastest growing claim in the natural food industry. They've done it and they’re excited to show it off!
If you are thinking about going through this process but haven’t started it yet, it’s probably time to make the leap!
Gluten Free
Gluten free signs were everywhere — on everything from pizzas (well, especially pizzas I must say), to pasta, to crackers, to items that have always been gluten free.
Even products that are naturally gluten free— like peanut butter— had a gluten free claim shown on their label. Just to be clear, right?! This shows the tendency to show all of the product claims possible.
One of our owners just happens to be gluten intolerant, so this made for a spectacular easy (and yummy) trip for him too.
Ice Cream
I scream, you scream…
Ice cream (and ice cream alternatives) were definitely bountiful at this show. They had everything from interesting gourmet flavors, to sherbets, to super creamy and decadent brands. Very popular!
Coconut
Coconut seemed to be everywhere. We saw coconut water, coconut milk, coconut chips (lots of chips!), fresh young coconut peels, and coconut flavoring in other products. The coconut trend is definitely on the rise.
Especially as Coconut Oil becomes more popular and mainstream (as many of the health benefits are now bring realized and promoted), it seems that the popularity of coconut products are also expanding with them.
Coffee
Gourmet coffee is extremely popular right now. These are often brands that have a great story— they bring you directly to the source and connect you to the farmer who’s growing the coffee. They’re also giving back on a large scale.
And they’re making relish cups o’ joe along the way.
Granola
Ganola was another great trend. Everyone has their own personal favorite recipe, and they were all really good. Lots of new and interesting flavors on the rise, along with the classic favorites.
Topics: Industry Trends
