Canadians Say Rising Food Prices Are Making It Harder To Put Food On The Table April 4, 2016: 12:00 AM EST A majority of working poor, middle-class and even higher-income Canadian consumers – nearly three out of five – say the rising cost of food is making it tougher to feed their families, an Angus Reid Institute poll finds. To deal with the problem, consumers are cutting back on meat purchases, buying cheaper brands, and choosing what they believe are less healthy but cheaper foods. Sixty-three percent of Canadians say the government has not paid enough attention to rising food prices, and 53 percent say the issue is “one of the most important” facing the country today. "Rising food prices: Canadians – regardless of income level – say it’s getting harder to feed their families", Angus Reid Institute, April 04, 2016, © The Angus Reid Institute

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FDA Will Release Voluntary Salt-Content Goals This Summer April 3, 2016: 12:00 AM EST Politico reports that voluntary goals for sodium levels in processed foods will be released this summer by the FDA, thanks to a lawsuit by the Center for Science in the Public Interest. Having to reduce salt content makes some food companies nervous, because the ingredient gives breads, crackers and sauces “their trademark taste.” It’s likely, however, that the reductions would be phased in over ten years. The CSPI lawsuit should push the FDA to release the salt targets completed two years ago but kept under wraps. Excessive salt content in processed foods has been a bête noire of the Obama administration for years. Helena Bottemiller Evich, "Obama's latest food crackdown: Salt", Politico, April 03, 2016, © Politico LLC

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“Free From” Is Good, But It’s No Substitute For Unprocessed April 2, 2016: 12:00 AM EST Food writer Marion Nestle writes that it’s all well and good that the food industry is getting rid of bisphenol-A (BPA) from its packaging, and removing unnatural additives, artificial colors or flavors, high fructose corn syrup, trans fat, gluten and GMOs – or at least including GMOs on their labels. Products sell better, and companies make more money, when the labels proclaim “free from.” And consumers benefit “to an extent,” she says. But highly processed foods still contain a lot calories, and often excessive salt and sugar. People need to eat vegetables and other unprocessed foods. “No amount of subtraction from highly processed foods is going to change that,” she concludes. Marion Nestle, "No amount of 'free from' labelling will make processed food good for you", The Guardian, April 02, 2016, © Guardian News and Media Limited or its affiliated companies

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Michigan Retail Chain To Transition To Cage-Free Eggs Over Coming Decade April 1, 2016: 12:00 AM EST Midwestern retail chain Meijer announced a commitment to all cage-free eggs in its stores by 2025. The company's current volume sales of cage-free eggs are “relatively low,” but the trend is in that direction. Meijer sells cage-free, free-range and traditional eggs, most of them sourced from farms in Michigan that have been working with the Meijer family for more than 50 years. Meijer (Grand Rapids, Mich.) operates 223 supercenters and grocery stores in Michigan, Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, Kentucky and Wisconsin. "Meijer Announces Goal to Source Only Cage-Free Eggs by 2025", News release, Meijer, April 01, 2016, © Meijer

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It Will Be A Slow Journey, But Antibiotics-Free Bandwagon Is Gaining Riders March 31, 2016: 12:00 AM EST Chickens fed antibiotics can live in cramped, unsanitary conditions without getting sick. They also tend to gain more weight. However, a highly vocal movement against antibiotic use in meat and poultry in the United States is inducing more producers to end the use of antibiotics. The goal is to protect consumers from a growing threat of antibiotic resistance as well as early puberty in children. Restaurant chains like Subway and McDonalds are demanding antibiotics-free meats. And poultry producers, including Tyson, Pilgrim’s Pride, Perdue Farms, and Foster Farms have all promised to mostly stop using antibiotics over varying time frames. It’s an uphill climb, however: 92 to 95 percent of food produced in the U.S. contains antibiotics. Emily Balsamo, "Movement Against Antibiotic-Treated Meat Gaining Momentum in the United States", Blog, Euromonitor International, March 31, 2016, © Euromonitor

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Hear Ye, Bread Lovers! Time To Rejoice March 24, 2016: 12:00 AM EST An article on the website GroundReport.com posts a list of restaurant trends as well as “fresh, healthy dishes” and ingredients that will gain popularity in 2016, including poke (“po-kay”), hot ice creams, seaweed, ube (purple yam), fermented foods, etc. Of special note, however, was the declaration that “the no-carb Atkins craze is over.” Ignoring the fact that the Atkins diet is actually more of a low-carb (especially low processed carb) plan than a no-carb plan, the article does have good news for the bread industry: “the triumphant return of bread is upon us.” Toasts, bagels and flatbreads featuring ancient grains and wholesome ingredients are all reasons for bread lovers to celebrate. Sreejan Niyogi, "Healthy Food Trends of 2016 That Will Influence Your Diet", Ground Report, March 24, 2016, © GroundReport

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As Fresh Produce Prices Climb, Canadian Shoppers Flock To Frozen Food Aisles March 24, 2016: 12:00 AM EST Canadian grocery shoppers are spending more time, and money, in the frozen food section of their supermarkets, thanks to a falling Canadian dollar and rising fresh produce prices. The result is an impressive 3.5 percent increase ($188 million) in sales over last year. Frozen produce is selling especially well, with fruit sales up 11 percent and vegetables up eight percent. Frozen produce, according to Nielsen, is a way to eat more healthful foods without having to worry about waste. Also selling well in this era of limited free time and more convenience are frozen (family size) dinners and premade meat patties. Sales of these items have increased two percent and 18 percent, respectively. "What's Heating Up In The Frozen Food Section?", News release, Nielsen, March 24, 2016, © The Nielsen Company

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California Could Be First State To Mandate Clearer Food Expiration Labels March 24, 2016: 12:00 AM EST A California lawmaker believes legislation he has proposed would help solve the food waste problem with one simple change. The bill would replace all the confusing expiration date phrases on food labels with two simpler notices. The confusing terminology – used by manufacturers and not regulated by the federal government – leads to waste of food that is still safely edible. Terms like "best by," "freshest by," and "sell by" would be replaced by ‘best if used by” and “expires on,” the latter indicating food should not be eaten after this date. Foods presenting a food safety problem would be determined by the California Department of Public Health. Tara Duggan, "Food waste is target of legislation on expiration labels", SF Gate, March 24, 2016, © Hearst Communications, Inc.

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More Retail Grocery Chains Transitioning To Cage-Free Eggs March 23, 2016: 12:00 AM EST Several retail food chains announced they are switching to cage-free eggs. The latest group includes Bashas’, The Fresh Market, and Aldi. Bashas’ will be completely cage-free by 2017 because it is “the right thing to do,” says CEO Edward Basha. The Fresh Market’s store brand of eggs are already cage-free, but it will switch to cage-free for all of its eggs within four years. Aldi says it will offer a cage-free egg choice by the end of the year, but has set 2025 as the target date for 100 percent cage-free eggs in stores. "Bashas', Fresh Market, Aldi commit to cage-free eggs", Supermarket News, March 23, 2016, © Penton

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Shoney’s Commits To All Cage-Free Eggs By 2025 March 23, 2016: 12:00 AM EST Nashville, Tenn.-based restaurant chain Shoney's has committed to serving only cage-free eggs in its 150 restaurants by 2025. The company said it is working with its suppliers “to back the brand's dedication to the humane treatment of animals” and figure out a smooth implementation. "This is about a movement, not a trend," said CEO David Davoudpour, who acquired Shoney's in 2007. Shoney’s serves 50 million eggs a year. Other companies that recently announced a transition to cage-free eggs include restaurateur HMSHost, egg producer Pasco's Oakdell, grocery retailer SuperValu, PepsiCo, Olive Garden, LongHorn Steakhouse, Krispy Kreme Doughnuts, snack maker Snyder's-Lance, Walmart, Otis Spunkmeyer, and grocery chain Giant Eagle (Pa.). "Shoney's Makes Commitment to Serve Only Cage-Free Eggs", News release, Shoney's, March 23, 2016, © Shoney's

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ConAgra Joins Other Food Companies In Complying With Vermont GMO Label Law March 22, 2016: 12:00 AM EST Add ConAgra Foods Inc. to the growing list of food companies that are doing what they can to comply with a Vermont GMO label law in the absence of judicial intervention or federal action. ConAgra will change its labels on all GMO products distributed across the country to comply with the Vermont law that goes into effect in July. Kellogg Co., General Mills Inc., Mars Inc. and Campbell Soup Co. have also announced nationwide compliance with Vermont’s law because it’s too expensive to make packaging changes for just one state. Most companies would prefer to have a comprehensive federal standard, but the U.S. Congress is not likely to come to an agreement on the issue any time soon. Annie Gasparro, "ConAgra Going Nationwide With GMO Labeling", The Wall Street Journal, March 22, 2016, © Dow Jones & Company, Inc.

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Citing Vermont Law, General Mills Bites The GMO Labeling Bullet Nationally March 19, 2016: 12:00 AM EST General Mills executives last month expressed hope that a bill establishing a national standard for GMO food labeling would pass the U.S. Congress. Instead the bill died in the Senate, leaving the company and many others to deal with a Vermont law that requires labeling taking effect on July 1. Similar statutes could also also pop up in other states. Though the company believes GMO foods are safe, it would be enormously expensive to relabel products for only one state “without significantly driving up costs for our consumers,” said Chief Operating Officer Jeff Harmening. Newly relabeled General Mills products, noting GMO ingredients, will begin to reach grocery stores over the next few weeks. Craig Giammona, "General Mills Will Label GMO Food Amid Stalemate in Congress", Bloomberg Business, March 19, 2016, © Bloomberg L.P.

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Italy’s Food Waste Legislation Takes A Carrot, Rather Than A Stick, Approach March 18, 2016: 12:00 AM EST A legislative proposal to reduce Italy’s food waste – by a billion tons this year alone -- has passed the House and is likely to pass the Senate. The bill follows in the footsteps of a new law in France that makes it compulsory for large grocery stores and supermarkets to donate their unsold edible foods to charitable organizations for redistribution to the needy. The Italian version, however, uses a carrot rather than a stick in securing compliance. It provides large tax breaks for participants. The French law imposes stiff fines for discarding unsold food. A billion tons of food waste in 2016 would be twice the amount recovered in Italy last year. "Italy to Rescue 1 Billion Tons of Food Waste a Year", Eat Drink Better, March 18, 2016, © Sustainable Enterprises Media, Inc.

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“Grain-Free” May Be A Smarter Marketing Claim Than Paleo March 18, 2016: 12:00 AM EST A Whole Foods Market employee with the title of “forager” recently toured a natural food products expo in California, discussing items that form the avant garde of food trends. Among the innovations – e.g., full-fat foods, veggie-flavored yogurts, organic kefir, etc. – were foods that promised to be “grain-free,” a new term that may supplant “gluten-free” and “Paleo” on packages. Sampling a grain-free granola made from bananas, cashew butter and seeds, Elly Truesdell said the term was better marketing and just plain “smart,” now that Paleo is “losing some steam.” Stephanie Strom, "From Kefir to ‘Cucamelons,’ Sampling the Next Wave of Natural Foods", The New York Times, March 18, 2016, © The New York Times Company

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New York City Schools Serve Only Antibiotics-Free Chicken For Lunch March 17, 2016: 12:00 AM EST New York City's public schools have contracted with Somma Food Products to provide all 1,700 schools – 1.1 million students – in the system with 100 percent antibiotics-free, vegetable-fed ChickenTopia Drumstix for lunch. The city's Department of Education is one of six large urban school districts known as the Alliance that two years ago agreed that all school lunch chicken products must be sourced from humanely treated chickens raised with zero antibiotics of any kind and a vegetarian diet. Besides ChickenTopia, Somma Food Group's products include Merrywood Farms and Range Grass Fed Beef. "New York City SchoolFood Launches Chickentopia 100% Antibiotic-Free, Vegetable-Fed Chicken from Somma Food Group", News release, Somma Food Products, March 17, 2016, © Somma Food Products

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Non-GMO, Organic Claims Led New Food Launches In 2015 March 17, 2016: 12:00 AM EST The Mintel database of new food product launches shows a distinct upward trend in organic and non-GMO claims in recent years that include “everything from gluten-free to prebiotics.” Nearly 14 percent of U.S. retail food products launched in 2015 made organic claims, up from 11 percent the year before. The claim that has begun to resonate more and more with American food companies and consumers is non-GMO: 16 percent of new products declared they were non-GMO in 2015, up 10 percent from and three percent in 2012. Other popular food claims in 2015’s product launches were allergen-friendly (up from 23 percent to 26 percent), and vegan claims (up from five percent to seven percent). Elaine Watson, "Mintel GNPD data: 15.7% of new US food/bev products made non-GMO claims in 2015 vs 2.8% in 2012", NUTRAingredients-USA.com, March 17, 2016, © William Reed Business Media SAS

Domains FOOD TRENDS Advice & Policy Ingredients Marketplace Simpler Food New Products New Ways of Eating Research Functional Foods Trend Research & Commentary Geographies Worldwide North America United States of America

Will Coca-Cola Benefit From Alliance With Filtered Milk Producer? March 17, 2016: 12:00 AM EST Coca-Cola has taken a minority stake in Chicago-based dairy cooperative Fairlife, betting on the future popularity of milk that is filtered, high-protein, low-sugar and lactose-free, a kind of “designer milk” that costs more than organic and is twice the price of conventional milk. With soda sales sagging, Coca-Cola has been experimenting with beverages that can be presented as healthier.  Another dairy producer is also offering milk that claims health benefits. The regional Dean Foods brand DairyPure sells milk that is hormone- and antibiotics-free. Fairlife should benefit considerably from its partnership with Coke, which has a huge distribution network and access to hundreds of thousands of U.S. supermarket shelves. Shruti Singh et al., "Coke Thinks Designer Milk Could Be a Billion-Dollar Brand", Bloomberg Business, March 17, 2016, © Bloomberg L.P.

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Chipotle May Relax Some Emergency Measures, As Food Safety Crisis Eases March 16, 2016: 12:00 AM EST Chipotle Mexican Grill, beset by food safety breakdowns since last summer, may scale back or get rid of some of the emergency measures it implemented to stem the crisis. It has been precooking beef to ensure destruction of E. coli bacteria, for example, and using high-resolution DNA-based testing to detect pathogens. It has also shifted preparation of some produce items to a central kitchen. But now, as sales and share price begin to climb, the company may reduce pathogen testing while keeping other safety procedures in place, The Wall Street Journal reports, citing “people familiar with the matter.” Jesse Newman, "Chipotle Weighs Stepping Back From Some Food-Safety Changes", The Wall Street Journal, March 16, 2016, © Dow Jones & Company, Inc.

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Organic Dairy Backs Mandatory GMO Labeling March 14, 2016: 12:00 AM EST Stonyfield Organic, a U.S.-based organic dairy owned by France’s Danone group, has gone on record as supporting mandatory GMO labeling of food products. Parent company Danone has not yet publicly supported GMO labeling, but has also not “donated to campaigns trying to block it,” according to a Stonyfield spokesman. The U.S. Senate on March 16 defeated legislation formally known as the Safe and Accurate Food Labeling Act, passed by the House last summer. Opponents of the bill, however, refer to it as the “deny Americans the right to know,” or DARK, Act. It would have preempted states, including Vermont, from requiring the labeling of GMO foods, instead implementing a voluntary system. Katy Askew, "Danone's Stonyfield backs mandatory GMO labelling - Expo West", Just-Food, March 14, 2016, © just-food.com

Domains FOOD TRENDS Advice & Policy Ingredients Marketplace Simpler Food New Formats Dairy-based ingredients Natural & Organic Regulation Geographies Worldwide North America United States of America

Non-GMO Trend Continues, Though Scientists Aren’t Sure GMO Foods Are A Threat March 13, 2016: 12:00 AM EST Claiming to be non-GMO – as some restaurants, grocery chains and food companies have at least partially done – is not only problematic, it’s increasingly difficult to defend from a scientific standpoint without proof that GMO foods present a threat to humanity. It’s problematic because GMO crops and animal feed are inescapable. Staunchly anti-GMO Chipotle had to finally admit its meat and cheeses come from GMO-fed cows. Whole Foods acknowledged “GMOs are ‘pervasive’ and can be found in 70 percent of packaged foods.” Meanwhile, the scientific community seems less hostile to the food industry’s growing application of GMO technology as it waits for some reliable evidence that GMO foods are safe – or unsafe. Chris Sorensen, "In defense of GMOs", Canadian Grocer, March 13, 2016, © Rogers Media Inc.

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Campbell Soup Cans To Be Mostly BPA-Free By End Of 2016 March 13, 2016: 12:00 AM EST Campbell Soup Co. began using cans made with acrylic or polyester linings in March, and has committed to eliminating all cans with bisphenol A (BPA) linings over the next year. The company said all varieties of Campbell's soups and gravies, Swanson broths and Spaghettios pasta products will be packaged in non-BPA-lined cans. It is on schedule to have three-fourths of its soup portfolio in non-BPA cans by December. BPA is a component in metal can coatings that protects food from direct contact with metal surfaces. Studies have found that the compound causes health problems. Ramkumar Iyer, "Campbell Soup to switch to BPA-free cans by 2017", Reuters, March 13, 2016, © Thomson Reuters

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Tesco Makes Its Food Waste Pilot Project Official March 12, 2016: 12:00 AM EST Following a successful six-month, 14-store pilot program, British grocery chain Tesco has finalized a plan to donate all unsold food to 5,000 charities in an effort to eradicate food waste from its stores and distribution centers by 2017. During the test, the Community Food Connection program resulted in delivery of more than 22 tons of food to needy people – approximately 50,000 meals. The company acknowledged it had discarded more than 55,000 tons of food last year. The Tesco initiative follows a similar effort by the Morrisons grocery chain. Caroline Mortimer, "Tesco to give all unsold food to charity after finalising deal", Independent, March 12, 2016, © independent.co.uk.

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FDA Urges Food Industry To Help Reduce Possibility Of Acrylamide Exposure March 10, 2016: 12:00 AM EST The FDA’s new non-binding guidelines covering acrylamide – a suspected carcinogen produced during high-temperature cooking of some foods – urge companies to take a close look at their products and try to figure out how to reduce the amount of the chemical. The guidelines are directed at growers, manufacturers, and food service operators, offering steps to reduce acrylamide. The guidance covers raw materials, processing practices, and ingredients pertaining to potato-based foods such as French fries and potato chips; cookies, crackers, breakfast cereals, toasted bread and other cereals-based foods; and coffee. All are sources of acrylamide exposure. "FDA Issues Final Guidance for Industry on How to Reduce Acrylamide in Certain Foods", News release, U.S. Food and Drug Administration, March 10, 2016, © U.S. FDA

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Researcher Sees Bright Market Future For Seaweed Products March 9, 2016: 12:00 AM EST Mintel is expecting big things for seaweed-flavored foods and beverages, in Europe at least, based on what’s been happening in the past five years. The researcher found that seaweed-flavored food and drink launches more than doubled in the period from 2011 to 2015, making Europe the “second most innovative” global region – after Asia/Pacific – when it comes to such launches. Seaweed remains a niche product in the Western world, but Mintel says it “it could become the next superfood,” thanks to the fact it is rich in natural vitamins, minerals, and plant-based protein. Fifty-eight percent of German consumers have either tried or would like to try algae as a protein source. Forty-four percent of Britons felt the same. "Seaweed-Flavoured Food And Drink Launches Increased By 147% In Europe Between 2011 And 2015", News release, Mintel, March 09, 2016, © Mintel Group Ltd.

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Nonprofit, Corporate Collaboration Joins Fight Against Food Waste March 9, 2016: 12:00 AM EST Six months after the USDA and EPA spearheaded an initiative to reduce food loss and waste by half within 15 years, a nonprofit and corporate collaboration known as ReFED has joined the fight. The group has put forth a 27-step roadmap for the U.S. to reduce food waste 20 percent by 2026. The roadmap suggests eliminating sell-by dates and changing the composition of animal feed. Focusing heavily on prevention, the plan urges food companies, for example, to adjust packaging to discourage waste, selling smaller portions and designing packages to prevent food spoilage. The plan, which ReFED says would create thousands of jobs and save consumers billions of dollars, has the support of 30 organizations, including the Natural Resources Defense Council. Justin Worland, "This Could Be the Best Way to Solve America’s Food Waste Problem", Time, March 09, 2016, © Time Inc.

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General Mills To Double Organic Acreage By 2019 March 9, 2016: 12:00 AM EST General Mills says it is doubling farm acreage devoted to organic agriculture to 250,000 acres by 2019, when it expects sales of its organic and natural products will reach $1 billion. The company has increased organic acreage by 120 percent since 2009, making it one of the top five organic ingredient purchasers in North America. It has also been on a buying spree since 2000, acquiring natural and organic brands that totaled $675 million dollars in sales last year. Brands include Cascadian Farm, Muir Glen, LÄRABAR, Liberté, Mountain High, Food Should Taste Good, Immaculate Baking, and Annie’s. "General Mills to double organic acreage sourcing to meet growing demand for natural and organic foods", News release, General Mills, March 09, 2016, © General Mills Inc.

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USDA Awards $6.8 Million Through School Breakfast Program March 7, 2016: 12:00 AM EST To celebrate the fiftieth anniversary of its school breakfast initiative, the USDA announced grants of up to $6.8 million to support competitive Team Nutrition Training in schools and child care sites. The grants will help sustain the implementation of the healthier meals made possible by the bipartisan Healthy Hunger-free Kids Act of 2010. Participation in school breakfast programs has increased by almost 27 percent since the law was enacted. More than 14 million students eat school breakfasts each day. Grants awarded through the program are used to conduct and evaluate training, nutrition education, and technical assistance supporting USDA nutrition standards for snacks and meals, such as school breakfast. "USDA Celebrates 50 Years of School Breakfast, Offers $6.8 Million in Grants to Support Healthy School Meals", News release, USDA, March 07, 2016, © USDA

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Rubio’s Simplifies Ingredients In Its Western U.S. Eateries March 6, 2016: 12:00 AM EST Mexican restaurant chain Rubio’s, based in California, said it is extending its quality ingredients program beyond sustainable seafood, handmade salsas and guacamole, and fresh produce. The company – which already uses no artificial sweeteners, FD&C colors, MSG or hydrogenated oils – plans to serve only all-natural chicken without antibiotics and bacon without added nitrates or nitrites. It is looking into adding sustainable, wild-caught salmon, beef raised without antibiotics, and flour tortillas made with simple ingredients. Rubio’s operates 194 restaurants in California, Arizona, Colorado, Utah and Nevada. "Rubio’s Restaurants Reveals Latest Commitment to Food Quality", News release, Rubio's, March 06, 2016, © Rubio's

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Salad Restaurant Chain Implements Million-Dollar “Fresh First” Policy March 6, 2016: 12:00 AM EST Texas-based salad restaurant chain Salata said it is spending a million dollars to upgrade its ingredients under a new “Fresh First” policy. The company is using only antibiotic-free chicken, real butter, premium ingredients, no artificial additives, and cage-free eggs. It also plans to reformulate its protein marinades to reduce sodium levels, and switch to organic tea for all iced tea selections. In addition, the company will only sell sodas that contain no high fructose corn syrup at its 50 corporate and franchised locations in Texas, Southern California and Illinois. "Salata Announces 'Fresh First' Clean Ingredients Commitment In 2016", News release, Salata, March 06, 2016, © Salata

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Candy Maker Mars Plans To Replace Artificial Colors Across Product Lines March 5, 2016: 12:00 AM EST Mars, Incorporated says it will spend the next five years replacing artificial colors in all lines of chocolate, gum, confection, food and beverage brands. The company stresses the move is a response to consumers demanding more natural ingredients, and is not because artificial colors are dangerous. The process will take five years because extensive testing is needed to make sure natural colors are safe and high quality. It will also require collaborating with suppliers to identify ingredients and formulas that meet all legal and regulatory requirements. About 50 brands will be affected. "Mars, Incorporated to remove all artificial colors from its human food portfolio", News release, Mars Incorporated, March 05, 2016, © Mars, Incorporated

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Annie’s Introduces Three Organic Breakfast Cereals March 3, 2016: 12:00 AM EST Natural and organic food company Annie's has unveiled three USDA certified organic breakfast cereals in partnership with parent company General Mills. Each is free of artificial flavors, synthetic colors, preservatives and artificial sweeteners like high-fructose corn syrup. All are made with whole grain oats as the first ingredient and contain only eight grams of sugar per serving. The three varieties include Berry Bunnies, Frosted Oat Flakes and Cocoa Bunnies. Annie’s was acquired by General Mills in 2014. "New Annie's Cereals bring the yum, plus the benefits of organic", News release, Annie's, Inc., March 03, 2016, © Annie's, Inc.

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“Please Die, Cupcakes,” Pleads Tarts Entrepreneur March 2, 2016: 12:00 AM EST Could tarts give cupcakes and other bakery staples a run for their money? A baker obsessed with the treat believes it will.  Her new Washington, D.C., company Black Pearl Tarts is on a mission to “raise the profile” of tarts: “Please die, cupcakes,” says Christina Marie Chambers. “It’s time for tarts to rule.” The self-taught and admittedly passionate baker insists the tart is not really a small pie. The crusts, or shells, have a different consistency, more like cookies, thanks to room-temperature butter. In addition, tarts are not served in a pan. Chambers’ tarts are filled with a variety of sweet and savory flavors, including dried fruit and red wine compote with goat cheese, poached pears and winter spices, and smoked salmon with cream cheese. Holley Simmons, "Why we’re suddenly craving tarts in a big way", The Washington Post, March 02, 2016, © The Washington Post

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Ohio Food Maker Schwan To Switch To Cage-Free Eggs By 2020 February 29, 2016: 12:00 AM EST The Schwan Food Company, maker of Freschetta and Red Baron frozen pizzas, said it will transition to 100 percent cage-free eggs by the end of 2020. The move will include all foods containing eggs sold by subsidiaries Schwan’s Home Service, Inc., Schwan’s Consumer Brands, Inc. and Schwan’s Food Service, Inc. The Ohio-based company consulted with animal-welfare experts and its suppliers about the future cage-free egg supply. It said its plans will depend on the availability of certified cage-free eggs. "The Schwan Food Company Announces Five-Year Transition Plan for Cage-Free Eggs", News release, Schwan Food Company, February 29, 2016, © Schwan Food Company

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Subway’s Newest Sandwich To Feature Antibiotics-Free Chicken February 26, 2016: 12:00 AM EST The Subway sandwich shop chain has introduced a new menu item that features chicken raised without antibiotics. Rotisserie-style chicken also contains no artificial colors, flavors or preservatives. The company has also committed to serving only eggs from cage-free layer hens by 2025. Subway said it had a difficult logistical problem with its rotisserie-style chicken at first: finding enough suppliers of antibiotics-free poultry to meet the chain’s needs. The problem was solved, however, and beginning April 1, the company will begin serving all-white meat chicken strips that will also be free of artificial colors, flavors, preservatives and antibiotics. "Subway Sandwich Shop Introduces New Rotisserie-Style Chicken Raised without Antibiotics", News release, Subway, February 26, 2016, © Subway

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Perdue Expands Product Offerings That Claim “No Antibiotics Ever” February 26, 2016: 12:00 AM EST Perdue Farms announced that it is extending its “No Antibiotics Ever” initiative into mainstream grocery categories and foodservice menu items. The move, which begins this months and continue into May, means that all of Perdue’s protein products, including frozen, refrigerated and fresh value-added chicken products, and all foodservice turkey products, will be antibiotics-free. The foodservice turkey products join the company’s No Antibiotics Ever menu-ready chicken distributed under the Perdue Harvestland and other foodservice brands. The number of Perdue products with the no-antibiotics claim totals more than 200. "Perdue Expands No Antibiotics Ever Poultry into Mainstream Grocery, Foodservice", News release, Perdue, February 26, 2016, © Perdue Farms

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NRDC Praises Perdue, Subway For Antibiotics Policies February 26, 2016: 12:00 AM EST The Natural Resources Defense Council said it was pleased to find that both chicken producer Perdue Farms and sandwich shop chain Subway have fully committed to eliminating antibiotics. According to the NRDC, Perdue “leads the chicken industry’s welcome conversion toward antibiotics stewardship.” Two-thirds of the company’s chickens, and more than half of its turkeys, are now raised without antibiotics. The NRDC is seeking wider adoption of third-party verification programs that assure consumers that companies are transparent about their stewardship claims. Third-party verification would also build confidence that animals raised without antibiotics are living in “high welfare conditions.” Lena Brook, "Perdue, Subway move full steam ahead on antibiotics use commitments", Switchboard Blog (NRDC), February 26, 2016, © Natural Resources Defense Council

Domains FOOD TRENDS Ingredients Simpler Food Meat, Fish & Savory Geographies Worldwide North America United States of America

Tyson Debuts Antibiotics-Free Pork Brand February 25, 2016: 12:00 AM EST Though American consumers increasingly say they prefer antibiotics-free meat and poultry, and food companies announce moves in that direction, producers continue to buy large amounts of drugs used in human medicine – 32.6 million pounds in 2013, a factor in the decline in antibiotics effectiveness in humans. According to Takepart.com, the FDA’s voluntary control guidelines “have thus far proved ineffective at reducing the use of antibiotics by the agriculture industry.” Still, the trend toward antibiotics-free meat is working its way from the avian sector into livestock. Most recent example: Tyson Foods' Open Prairie Natural Pork brand made from pigs raised without antibiotics, hormones, or the use of gestation crates. The move makes Tyson the leading producer of antibiotics-free pork in the U.S. Willy Blackmore, "A Major American Meat Company Is Going Big With Antibiotic-Free Pork", TakePart.com, February 25, 2016, © TakePart, LLC

Domains FOOD TRENDS Advice & Policy Ingredients Marketplace Simpler Food New Products Meat, Fish & Savory Trend Research & Commentary Geographies Worldwide North America United States of America

Salvage Food Store Has Had Its Share Of Hurdles To Overcome February 17, 2016: 12:00 AM EST A Kansas grocery store that sells only salvage foods and beverages at discount has proved beneficial to the local community, but has had some unique problems to overcome. The Bargain Barn’s shelves are filled with overstock items and products close to or a little past their expiration date that might otherwise end up in a landfill. So to keep its certification, the store must be inspected regularly by the state to make sure the food is safe. But that eases the concerns of some shoppers who worry that salvage food means spoiled food. In addition to inspections, the store faces the challenge of obtaining its food supply through bidding or contracting. State regulations prohibit buying locally produced goods, like eggs. But otherwise a full range of items is available, including gluten-free and international foods. Chloe Donaldson, "Store sells salvage, discount food", Parsons (Kansas) Sun, February 17, 2016, © Parsons Sun, Parsons, KS

Domains FOOD TRENDS Advice & Policy Marketplace New Formats Trend Research & Commentary Geographies Worldwide North America United States of America

“Healthy” Foods In The U.K. No Longer Means “Diet” February 17, 2016: 12:00 AM EST Britons are cutting way back on their sugar intake, and are paying closer attention to other ingredients as well, researcher Kantar Worldpanel says. As part of a trend in the U.K. toward healthy food selections, a full 93 percent say cutting back on sugar consumption is a priority. But perceptions of what constitutes “healthy” foods is changing. In fact, sales of healthy private label foods are down 3.3 percent, as consumers shift away from “diet” foods to fresh, “free-from,” less processed  more natural, or functional foods. Kantar advises retailers to “revisit and relaunch and reposition their healthy ranges.” Giles Quick, "Sugar now the UK’s number one ‘nutrient concern’", Report, Kantar UK, February 17, 2016, © Kantar is a WPP Plc company

Domains FOOD TRENDS Advice & Policy Bodily Needs Ingredients Marketplace New Ways of Eating Diets Nutrition Functional Foods Natural & Organic Sugars & Sweeteners Trend Research & Commentary Geographies Worldwide EMEA Europe United Kingdom

Trader Joe’s Continues 20-Year Transition To Cage-Free Eggs February 15, 2016: 12:00 AM EST Specialty grocery chain Trader Joe’s announced that its 11-year-old plan to ensure that all of its house brand eggs come from cage-free hens -- would continue for nine more years, or earlier if market conditions permit. Sixty-two percent of the eggs it sells now are from cage-free hens. It will switch to 100 percent cage-free eggs in California, Oregon, Washington, Arizona, New Mexico, and Colorado by 2020. Target has announced it was shifting to cage-free egg sources, as have restaurant chains Subway, Dunkin’ Donuts, McDonald’s, Taco Bell, and Panera Bread, among others. Ashlee Kieler, "Trader Joe’s To Sell Only Cage-Free Eggs Nationally By 2025", Consumerist, February 15, 2016, © Consumer Media LLC

Domains FOOD TRENDS Simpler Food Geographies Worldwide North America United States of America

A Steadily Changing World Reflected In Consumer Survey Results February 12, 2016: 12:00 AM EST A preview of Euromonitor’s 2015 global consumer survey results reveals that Millennials and Gen Z – consumers under 30 – are leading the shift from computers to mobile devices such as smartphones and tablets. This shift includes young people of the growing middle classes in emerging markets. Among other insights: Paid advertising, while still influential and important, is losing ground to product endorsements and opinions shared by family and friends on social media. Fifty-nine percent consider these recommendations to be very or extremely influential. Despite the upsurge in home food preparation, time-strapped consumers still buy packaged food and ready meals, especially “all natural” products. Lastly, consumers struggle to link health priorities with everyday habits, and try to find time for “what matters:” family, friends, and themselves. Lisa Holmes, "Top 6 Insights from the 2015 Global Consumer Trends Survey", Euromonitor International, February 12, 2016, © Euromonitor

Domains FOOD TRENDS Advice & Policy Bodily Needs Ingredients Marketplace New Ways of Eating Research Consumers Natural & Organic Trend Research & Commentary Geographies Worldwide

British Grocery Market Continues Slow Growth Pattern February 9, 2016: 12:00 AM EST Discount grocery retailers Aldi and Lidl saw growth accelerate in the U.K. – Lidl to 18.7 percent and Aldi to 13.7 percent. Lidl’s market share rose to 4.2 percent and Aldi’s to 5.6 percent. Among the big chains, Sainsbury’s and Waitrose’s sales were up, while Tesco’s and Morrisons’ were down, according to Kantar Worldpanel’s most recent data. The Co-operative – the U.K.'s fifth biggest food retailer and most frequently visited – was the fastest growing non-discounter, increasing sales by 1.4 percent. Consumers are making more healthful food choices. Although grocery sales growth in the U.K. has been sluggish overall – take-home sales increased only 0.2 percent in the period – the healthy trend led to a five percent increase in fresh food sales in both traditional and discount retailers. Fresh foods include fruits, vegetables, nuts, fresh poultry and fish. "New Year health drives mean growth for the British grocery", Report, Kantar Worldpanel, February 09, 2016, © Kantar Worldpanel

Domains FOOD TRENDS Advice & Policy Ingredients Marketplace Research Fruit, Vegetables & Nuts Meat, Fish & Savory Trend Research & Commentary Geographies Worldwide EMEA Europe United Kingdom

Non-GMO Foods Are Selling Well, Though They Are Not Necessarily Organic February 8, 2016: 12:00 AM EST American and international food authorities continue to reassure consumers that GMO foods are safe, but the message may not be sinking in, a market researcher says. Retail sales of non-GMO foods and beverages were about $200 billion in 2014, and will rise 65 percent to $330 billion by 2019. This contrasts with an expected 13 percent growth rate for all foods and beverages. However, there is some confusion in the market. Consumers often assume that non-GMO foods are organic. But, though all organic foods are non-GMO, not all non-GMO foods are organic. Non-GMO foods are certified after testing by private organizations like the Non-GMO Project. Organic certification is overseen by the federal government, which makes sure synthetic fertilizers and pesticides – and GMO ingredients – are not used in production. Bottom line: retail sales of less heavily regulated non-GMO products are outpacing sales of foods labeled organic. "Non-GMO Growth, Organic Label Debate", Prepared Foods, February 08, 2016, © BNP Media

Domains FOOD TRENDS Advice & Policy Ingredients Marketplace Research Natural & Organic Regulation Trend Research & Commentary Geographies Worldwide North America United States of America

“Most Innovative” German Food/Drink Launches February 4, 2016: 12:00 AM EST Euromonitor analysts picked ten German food and drink launches from 2015 as the “most innovative.” At the top of the list is Knorr (Unilever) Dry Seasoning for Lasagna, which touts its “naturalness” and “fewer, simpler” ingredients. The product shows that the “natural” food claim is important in Germany. Second is a no-carb pasta substitute from The Netherlands (Konjac root noodles), an example of another trend: low-carb claims doubled from 2014 to 2015. Other innovations from Germany: a gluten-free snack drink made with quinoa and matcha tea; a cheese wheel (Leerdammer Schnittkäse) that claims “deli fresh” and “cut from the loaf;” and a low-calorie soft drink (Helga) based on freshwater microalgae chlorella. "Ten Innovative Food And Drink Launches In Germany", Blog, Mintel, February 04, 2016, © Mintel Group Ltd.

Domains FOOD TRENDS Advice & Policy Ingredients Marketplace Innovation Natural & Organic Trend Research & Commentary Geographies Worldwide EMEA Europe Germany Netherlands

New USDA Funding Supports Food Safety Research February 3, 2016: 12:00 AM EST A USDA food safety program has awarded 21 grants totaling $15.1 million to fund food safety research in U.S. colleges and universities. The goal of the National Institute of Food and Agriculture’s and its Agriculture and Food Research Initiative (AFRI) is to protect consumers from microbial and chemical contaminants occurring in the food chain. The grants, authorized by the 2014 Farm Bill, are clustered around four sub-programs: enhancing food safety through improved processing technologies; effective mitigation strategies for antimicrobial resistance ($3.4 million); improving food safety; and improving food quality.  Five schools received grants of about $1 million each. "USDA Awards 35 Food Safety Grants, Including $3.4 Million for Antimicrobial Resistance, to Protect Consumers", News release, USDA, February 03, 2016, © USDA

Domains FOOD TRENDS Advice & Policy Marketplace Research Safety Geographies Worldwide North America United States of America

Low-Carb “Cloud Bread” Skips The Grains Entirely February 3, 2016: 12:00 AM EST Low- or no-carb fans looking for an alternative to wheat bread will be pleased by this innovation. “Cloud bread” contains only four ingredients, not one of which is carb-rich grain. Online bakers who have tried it post “rave reviews,” despite the fact that the recipe – using only eggs, cream cheese, cream of tartar, and a packet of sweetener – requires a lot of steps and time. The result is fluffy patties that are gluten- and carb-free, and rich in protein. They can be used as sandwich and hamburger buns in a low-carb (e.g., diabetic or Atkins-style) diet. And, they can be toasted and topped with jam “for a tasty breakfast.” Alexis Hobbs, ""Cloud Bread" Is the Latest Food Trend Exploding on Pinterest", Cosmopolitan, February 03, 2016, © Hearst Communications, Inc

Domains FOOD TRENDS Ingredients Marketplace New Formats New Ways of Eating Dairy-based ingredients Geographies Worldwide North America United States of America

Supermarkets Invest In Fresh Prepared Foods To Meet Demand For Convenience February 3, 2016: 12:00 AM EST Supermarkets are achieving operational efficiencies in their stores by investing in the prepared foods that meet consumer demand for convenience and freshness, according to the Food Marketing Institute. Retail food stores are competing with restaurants and convenience stores in the fresh prepared foods arena, and are boosting their investment there as center store sales decline. A survey of 8,000 stores conducted for FMI by Technomic found that the $15 billion growth in prepared fresh foods over the last eight years was no accident. Sixty-two percent of surveyed supermarkets offer customers made-to-order stations along the store perimeter. Some stores offer limited service or full-service restaurants. A key finding: “supermarkets are catering to the changing preferences of shoppers and their demands for customization.” "Study Reviews Accelerating Sophistication of Supermarket Fresh Prepared Foods", News release, Food Marketing Institute, February 03, 2016, © FMI

Domains FOOD TRENDS Marketplace Innovation New Ways of Eating Research Geographies Worldwide North America United States of America

Food Waste Becoming A Major Concern Of Americans February 2, 2016: 12:00 AM EST Americans are becoming increasingly concerned about the amount of food they waste, either in the home or at grocery stores, because they are also aware of the environmental impact of food production. Data from 2010 released by the USDA and EPA indicate that 31 percent (60 million tons) of the food in grocery stores was never eaten. About two-thirds occurred in the home, the rest in stores. A UN agency says that ratio reflects the global situation as well. Last September, the USDA and EPA jointly announced the first food waste reduction goal: 50 percent by 2030. At the grassroots level, restaurants and consumers are already taking action: “freeganism” (eating discarded grocery store foods); the “ugly food movement” (accepting less-than-aesthetic produce); and the “root-to-stem” movement (consuming all parts of a vegetable). Emily Balsamo, "United States Faces Food Loss", Euromonitor International, February 02, 2016, © Euromonitor

Domains FOOD TRENDS Advice & Policy Ingredients Marketplace New Ways of Eating Research Fruit, Vegetables & Nuts Meat, Fish & Savory Trend Research & Commentary Geographies Worldwide North America United States of America

High Price Of Cauliflower Infuriates Some Dieters February 1, 2016: 12:00 AM EST Cold weather in the cauliflower-growing regions of California and Arizona has led to a shortage and a rise in prices that has dieters around the U.S. in a frenzy. Cauliflower has become a favorite of low-carb devotees because a medium-size head has fewer carbs than a single potato, is rich in vitamin C and low in calories. Creative cooks have found many ways to prepare it, even to disguise it to substitute for other foods in recipes (e.g., the “mac” in mac and cheese, faux mashed potatoes, and even ersatz rice). But the scarcity of the vegetable has driven prices to prohibitive levels: up 30 percent from a year ago, according to the USDA, with some stores charging as much as $8.00 a head. Robin Sidel, "Why Carb Counters Are Running for the Cauliflower", The Wall Street Journal, February 01, 2016, © Dow Jones & Company, Inc.

Domains FOOD TRENDS Bodily Needs Ingredients Marketplace New Ways of Eating Consumers Diets Nutrition Fruit, Vegetables & Nuts Geographies Worldwide North America United States of America

Cake Mix Company Battles Rising Tide Of Consumer Antipathy, Other Trends January 30, 2016: 12:00 AM EST The changing dietary habits of American consumers – concerns about processed foods and sugars, less time for baking – have driven the bake mix industry, and packaged foods in general, into the doldrums. Betty Crocker cake mix sales were down six percent as of May 2015, the end of its last fiscal year. They have rebounded somewhat since then, mainly because of price cuts to keep pace with competitors like Duncan Hines. Meanwhile, the refrigerated dough business (Pillsbury) has suffered some decline, but not as steep as Betty Crocker’s. The declines reflect trends in the overall cake mix and refrigerated dough categories. Still, home baking hasn’t gone completely out of style. General Mills is making sure of that with ramped up marketing efforts on its website, and through extensive social media campaigns. Mike Hughlett , "General Mills' Betty Crocker, Pillsbury cope with baking slump", Star Tribune, January 30, 2016, © StarTribune

Domains FOOD TRENDS Advice & Policy Ingredients Marketplace New Ways of Eating Research Cereals & Bakery Trend Research & Commentary Geographies Worldwide North America United States of America