Volatility In Global Agriculture Needs To Be Addressed By The World’s Brightest October 14, 2014: 12:00 AM EST IT and Internet companies (e.g., Apple, Google) are grabbing a lot of media attention lately, but hardly anybody is paying attention to agricultural activity, which is “breaking records”, according to The Atlantic’s Moisés Naím. Worldwide wheat production is at the highest levels ever, and farms and granaries are over-flowing, mainly because high prices have encouraged farmers to boost cultivation. High prices are the result of population growth, increased food consumption in poor countries, the use of grains to make fuels, and frequent extreme climate events. Lower prices will lead to production declines -- the cycle continues. The key problem, Naím says, is that greater food-related volatility will lead to social and geopolitical instability affecting millions of people globally. He suggests that the geniuses in high tech might want to try solving the puzzle. Moises Naim, "The World Is Full of Grain", Moisesnaim.com, October 14, 2014, © Moises Naim

Domains FOOD TRENDS Advice & Policy Marketplace Research Trend Research & Commentary Geographies Worldwide

Consumer Pressure On Flavor Companies Mounts October 9, 2014: 12:00 AM EST Consumer and environmental groups have asked the FDA to take a closer look at the currently self-regulated flavors industry to make sure so-called natural and artificial flavors are really safe. Consumer watchdog scientists argue that if the stuff is so safe, why is it so secret? The global flavor industry is pegged at about $23.91 billion, up 19 percent from $20 billion in 2000, about half of which is for food, the other half for fragrances. The Flavors and Extract Manufacturers Association says it has found around 3,000 different flavors to be safe, and most are used in minute quantities. FEMA companies worry that disclosing their ingredients even in such small amounts, would spur more consumer complaints, something flavor companies would like to avoid. Nevertheless, consumer concern about the safety of ingredients is increasing steadily. Candice Choi, "Natural and artificial 'flavors' fuel food industry but remain a mystery", Startribune.com, October 09, 2014, via Associated Press, © Associated Press/StarTribune.com

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

Big Growth In Consumption Of Tea, Bottled Water Over Last Five Years October 3, 2014: 12:00 AM EST Consumption of bottled water and tea represented 55 percent of overall beverage market growth between 2008 and 2013, according to food and drink industry consultant Zenith International. Tea consumption grew by 62 billion liters, the largest of the 24 beverage categories in 72 countries. Bottled water consumption increased by 83 billion liters. Volume consumption of milk grew by 20 billion liters; coffee grew by 16 billion liters. The company noted that carbonates have slipped behind milk, and coffee has overtaken beer. Another notable trend: “a huge increase” in beverage choices, with more flavors, blends, packs, sweeteners, outlets and delivery options. "Bottled water and tea lead global drinks growth", Report, Zenith International, October 03, 2014, © Zenith International

Domains FOOD TRENDS Advice & Policy Marketplace Research Trend Research & Commentary Geographies Worldwide

Glanbia’s Gluten-Free Oats Exceed EU Labeling Requirements October 3, 2014: 12:00 AM EST Glanbia Nutritionals has developed a process to ensure that its OatPure oats are free of gluten contamination. The oats are certified at 10 parts gluten per million (ppm), exceeding EU standards that require a maximum of 20 ppm gluten to be labeled gluten-free. Oats do not contain gluten naturally, but can be contaminated when milled in facilities that also produce wheat products. The company’s OatPure gluten-free oats are manufactured at a contamination-free milling facility in Ireland. Glanbia personnel apply an audited labeling and tracking process with guaranteed gluten-free equipment to deliver a fully traceable end product. OatPure gluten-free oats will be available in Europe beginning in November. "Glanbia Nutritionals Develops Gluten-Free Oats With High Traceability and Purity", Nutrition Insight, October 03, 2014, © CNS Media

Domains FOOD TRENDS Bodily Needs Ingredients Nutrition Cereals & Bakery Functional Foods Geographies Worldwide EMEA Europe Ireland

Snacks Now Claim A Much Greater Share Of America’s Collective Stomach October 2, 2014: 12:00 AM EST Snack sales in the U.S. are rising much faster than overall grocery sales, according to Nielsen. Grocery sales rose 2.8 percent in the year ending in early September. But sales of Greek yogurt rose 16.6 percent, sales of meat snacks like jerky rose 11.2 percent, and sales of nutritional bars rose 7.8 percent. Sales of candy, nuts and salty snacks in general all rose faster than grocery sales. Most of the 490 Americans Nielsen polled about snack eating habits said they "enjoyed" eating all the time or to “satisfy hunger between meals”. Other trends: Americans are also working more hours, leaving less time for sit-down meals; Big Food has created an incredibly large variety of flavorful snacks to munch on; and the line between snacks and meals has blurred considerably in recent years. Jillian Berman , "Americans Spending More On Snacks, Less On Actual Real Food", The Huffington Post, October 02, 2014, © HuffPost Business - AOL Money & Finance

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

Pepsi Joins Coke In Experimenting With Online-Only Soda Marketing October 1, 2014: 12:00 AM EST The latest version of the 120-year-old soft drink once known as Pepsi-Cola will be sold exclusively by online retailer Amazon.com. Pepsi True, sweetened with sugar and stevia, is a mid-calorie soda that will launch in mid-October to compete with mid-calorie Coca-Cola Life, also sweetened with sugar and stevia. Coke is marketing another of its soft drinks, Coca-Cola Surge, exclusively online. Analysts say introducing new beverages online is a “good move”, because online sales will “build scale” in the market before expanding to traditional retail outlets. Sales of diet sodas are sagging as consumers grow more concerned about soft drink consumption and obesity. Tripp Mickle, "New Pepsi Goes to Amazon", The Wall Street Journal, October 01, 2014, © Dow Jones & Company, Inc.

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

Snacking Is Big Business Worldwide, And Chocolate Is King September 30, 2014: 12:00 AM EST A survey by Nielsen finds that chocolate is universally favored at snack time. Sixty-four percent of respondents said they reached for chocolate to nibble on between meals, followed by fruits (62 percent), vegetables (52 percent), cookies (51 percent) and bread (50 percent). Americans said they preferred salty snacks over other options, though paradoxically the No. 1 health attribute they prefer in their snacks is “less sodium”. Global snack sales reached $374 billion in the year that ended March 2014. Nielsen polled 30,000 people in 60 countries. Venessa Wong, "What the World Eats When It's Snack Time", Bloomberg Businessweek, September 30, 2014, © Bloomberg L.P.

Domains FOOD TRENDS Advice & Policy Marketplace Research Trend Research & Commentary Geographies Worldwide North America EMEA Asia-Pacific Latin America United States of America Europe Middle East- Africa

Food Industry Analyst Is Bullish On Baking September 26, 2014: 12:00 AM EST An analyst with a food and agribusiness research service says that, despite some major challenges, the baking industry “has a bright future”. Nicholas Fereday of Rabobank acknowledges the sluggish demand that led to underperforming retail baked goods sales, up only two percent a year since 2001. Bucking that trend, however, is the $28 billion cakes and pastries sector, which has grown 4.1 percent in the last three years. (The $22 billion bread market has grown only 1.1 percent during the same period.) Fereday predicts further industry consolidation in baking, but also some positive trends: an interest in more diverse ingredients, including ancient grains and whole wheat flours, thanks to gluten-free popularity; the potential for artisan bread; the growth of unpackaged baked foods and the “rise of industrial-artisanal production”. Josh Sosland, "Rabobank sees bright future for baking after years of struggle", BakingBusiness.com, September 26, 2014, © Sosland Publishing Co.

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

SNAP Keeps Low-Income People From Going Hungry, But Dietary Quality Is Low September 23, 2014: 12:00 AM EST Compared to families eligible for, but not participating in the federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), those in the program tend to eat less nutritious food, a U.S. study finds. In 2013, about 48 million Americans participated in SNAP, once known as the food stamp program, which helps low-income households buy groceries. The study found that SNAP participants had lower dietary quality scores overall than nonparticipating low-income people, and lower scores for fruits and vegetables, seafood and plant proteins. They also consumed more empty calories. Binh T. Nguyen et al., "The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program and Dietary Quality Among US Adults: Findings From a Nationally Representative Survey. ", Mayo Clinic Proceedings, September 23, 2014, © Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research

Domains FOOD TRENDS Advice & Policy Bodily Needs Marketplace Research Consumers Nutrition Trend Research & Commentary Geographies Worldwide North America United States of America

U.K. Agency Issues Guidelines For Losing Weight And Keeping It Off September 23, 2014: 12:00 AM EST The U.K.’s National Institute of Health and Care Excellence (NICE) has issued draft guidelines for organizations that are trying to help adults and children reach and maintain a healthy weight. The guidance included a recommendation that TV and other types of screen time be restricted. People should reduce the energy density of their diet by eating fewer fried foods, less confectionery and full-fat cheese. Also suggested: following the principles of a Mediterranean diet by eating more vegetables, fruits, beans and pulses, whole grains, fish, and using olive oil instead of other fats; and eating healthy breakfast foods, such as unsweetened wholegrain cereals or bread and lower-fat milk. "Watch less TV to prevent obesity, says NICE", NHS Choices, September 23, 2014, © NHS Choices Team

Domains FOOD TRENDS Bodily Needs Ingredients Consumers Diets Nutrition Functional Foods Geographies Worldwide EMEA Europe United Kingdom

U.K. Potato Chip Company Launches Innovative “Peel And Share” Package September 22, 2014: 12:00 AM EST A British potato chip (crisp) marketer is launching a new package that allows customers to peel open the front to allow sharing at parties, for example. Seabrook Crisps’ peelable package, which has a tamper proof seal, has no impact on shelf life. Designed for “on the go” snacking and sharing, the innovative package will be sold at gas stations and other retail convenience locations. The peel-and-share design will only be available on the lattice-cut 40-gram crisp packs. "Seabrook Crisps Launches New Range and Peel Front Packs", The Food & Drink Innovation Network, September 22, 2014, © Food & Drink Innovation Network

Domains FOOD TRENDS Marketplace Innovation New Formats Geographies Worldwide EMEA Europe United Kingdom

Author Sees Challenges, Rewards, Of Baking Bread With Sprouted Grains September 21, 2014: 12:00 AM EST A cookbook author and university faculty member believes there are definite challenges to baking bread with sprouted flours and grains. But also definite rewards. According to Peter Reinhart, author of a new book, “Bread Revolution”, sprouted whole grains – whether wheat, rye, oats, quinoa, etc. – are fundamentally more nutritious than processed grain. Flours made from sprouted grains are naturally sweeter because their own enzymes break the endosperm starches into simple sugars. Reinhart says the challenge for bakers is to preserve enough of the gluten during the sprouting process, especially in wheat and rye, to maintain structure needed for dough. “Now we finally know it can be done and how to do it,” he says. Michelle Locke, "Rethink baking with sprouted grain", Southeast Missourian (AP), September 21, 2014, © The Associated Press

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

Most Popular New Grocery Products Are High-Carb Comfort Foods September 21, 2014: 12:00 AM EST A rating service that gauges the popularity of newly-introduced items on grocery store shelves finds that high-carb comfort foods are grabbing a lot of attention. This despite reports that Americans are increasingly rejecting carb-rich processed foods in favor of “cleaner” foods. UStamp’s Instant.ly Shelf Score Index ranks Eggo’s blueberry cobbler waffle at No. 1, tied with a new artisanal bread mix from Pillsbury, while DiGiorno’s new Design a Pizza product came in at No. 3.  “Interestingly,” says uStamp’s CEO, “in addition to being comfort foods, two of the top three products this month also require some degree of preparation by the consumer.” Melissa Hoffmann, "These Top New Supermarket Products Show How Much We Love Carbs ", AdWeek, September 21, 2014, © Adweek

Domains FOOD TRENDS Advice & Policy Ingredients Marketplace New Products Research Carbohydrates & Fibers (sugar, starches) Cereals & Bakery Trend Research & Commentary Geographies Worldwide North America United States of America

Ethical Veal Production Slowly Being Accepted By Connoisseurs September 20, 2014: 12:00 AM EST Animal welfare activists have long considered veal to be a “cruel meat”, similar to foie gras, because of the purported suffering endured by calves and geese. Good veal is very tender and light in color. Tenderness is achieved by packing calves in “veal creates” to restrict movement and keep muscles soft; the lightness comes from a diet of milk that is nutritionally poor and often leads to anemia, digestive disorders and infections. But producers in Europe have begun to listen to activists and consumers concerned about animal welfare. The more humane production methods – eliminating veal crates, providing a more varied diet – create a nontraditional pinker meat. But veal purists, facing an inexorable trend, are gradually learning to accept it. Simone Baroke, "Veal: Evolving from “Cruel Meat” to Ethical Choice", Simone Baroke Euromonitor International , September 20, 2014, © Euromonitor International

Domains FOOD TRENDS Advice & Policy Ingredients Meat, Fish & Savory Food Standards Regulation Trend Research & Commentary Geographies Worldwide EMEA Europe United Kingdom Switzerland

Some New Organic/Natural Food Launches Are Real Standouts September 19, 2014: 12:00 AM EST With retail sales of organic and “natural” foods expected to rise in the U.S. to $54 million this year, it’s no wonder new on-trend product launches are attracting a lot of attention. One of the editors at just-food.com surveyed new products on display at the Natural Products Expo East trade show recently, and picked the ten (in her opinion) best. Among them: Attune Foods, Peace Cereal protein granola and flakes; Dove Foods, Ardenne Farms gluten-free baking mixes; Amira Nature Foods, Basmati and organic rice; Blount Fine Foods Corp, ready-to-eat organic soup; KettlePop, organic kettle corn; and Lunch Bundles Inc., organic lunch kits. Katy Askew, "just-food's pick: Top ten on-trend products at Natural Products Expo East", Just-Food, September 19, 2014, © just-food.com

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

Buyer Of Crumbs Chain Takes On A Major Marketing Challenge September 19, 2014: 12:00 AM EST Camping World CEO Marcus Lemonis has invested $6.5 million in his conviction that he can turn around bankrupt cupcake chain Crumbs by scaling back operations, vacating costly Manhattan locations, and diversifying offerings to include ice cream, pies, cookies and candy. Some industry experts believe the strategy is doomed. Darren Tristano of Technomic, for example, says broadening the menu takes the chain too far beyond the familiar concept – cupcakes. Customers are “not going to go there to purchase a sandwich or another item”. David Sax, author of a book on the cupcake craze, acknowledges cupcake cachet has dimished, but people still buy baked goods. If Crumbs can position itself that way, “you're sort of starting off ahead”. Jill Krasny, "The Experts Debate: Can Marcus Lemonis Rescue Crumbs?", Inc., September 19, 2014, © Mansueto Ventures

Domains FOOD TRENDS Ingredients Marketplace New Ways of Eating Cereals & Bakery Geographies Worldwide North America United States of America

Taco Bell Tests Fried Chicken In Several Menu Items September 18, 2014: 12:00 AM EST Taco Bell is testing “crispy” – i.e., fried – chicken in four menu items in its continuing effort to boost sales by expanding its menu into new areas and times of the day, such as breakfast. Over the past year the company has experimented with a chicken quesadilla, crunchwrap, chicken grillers and a crispy chicken breakfast biscuit taco. Taco Bell consulted with sister company KFC for advice on how to fry chicken. However, Taco Bell's recipe, kitchen equipment and preparation methods are different. A brand strategy expert thinks adding fried chicken to Taco Bell’s menu is a bad move. "I love fried chicken,” says Erika Napolitano, “but why would I want to go to Taco Bell to get it?" Bruce Horovitz, "Taco Bell tests fried chicken in several products", USA Today, September 18, 2014, © USATODAY, a division of Gannett Satellite Information Network, Inc.

Domains FOOD TRENDS Ingredients Marketplace New Formats New Products New Ways of Eating Meat, Fish & Savory Geographies Worldwide North America United States of America

Organic Food Industry Is Healthy, But Could Do A Lot Better September 18, 2014: 12:00 AM EST Organic food products are increasingly visible on grocery store shelves, including the big box food retailers, and more than 80 percent of American families say they buy organic products at least sometimes. Organic food sales in the United States are booming – $35 billion in 2013. But, according to experts who spoke at a recent industry conference, organic acreage and production are not keeping up with demand. There are still not enough organic farms in the U.S., mainly because there is no federal support system equivalent to that for conventional farmers. That makes it a challenge to attract growers to organic farming. "Organic leaders assess strategic challenges now and in future", News release, Organic Trade Association, September 18, 2014, © Organic Trade Association

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

Bucking A Restaurant Trend, Olive Garden Will Continue To Dish Out Free Breadsticks September 18, 2014: 12:00 AM EST Olive Garden restaurants are bucking a persistent national trend: the disappearance of free bread at meals. A report by Olive Garden investor Starboard recommended that the Italian restaurant chain eliminate free bread sticks to boost the bottom line. “Endless salad and breadsticks are another contributor to food waste,” the company said. But executives at Olive Garden said they had no intention of implementing the recommendation. “Olive Garden’s salad and breadsticks have been an icon of brand equity since 1982. It conveys Italian generosity ...” Stefanie Tuder, "Free Bread at Restaurants Hitting Endangered Status", Good Morning America, September 18, 2014, © ABC News Internet Ventures

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

Study Finds Big Increase In Liver Injury Related To Dietary Supplement Use September 17, 2014: 12:00 AM EST Herbal and other dietary supplements can be harmful to the liver, especially in middle-aged women, according to new U.S. research. More than half of Americans – mostly women, non-Hispanic whites, people over age 40, the better educated – use herbal and dietary supplements. Liver injury related to non-bodybuilding supplements has risen from seven percent in 2004 to 20 percent in 2013. Death or liver transplantation occurred more frequently (13 percent) from the use of non-bodybuilding supplements than from conventional medications (three percent). The researchers said the key problem is the lack of stringent oversight of herbals and dietary supplements, resulting in greater potential harmful or even deadly consequences. Victor J. Navarro et al., "Liver injury from herbals and dietary supplements in the U.S. Drug-Induced Liver Injury Network. ", Hepatology, September 17, 2014, © John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

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

Amateur Bread Baker Spearheads Global Loaf-Swapping Initiative September 13, 2014: 12:00 AM EST Malin Elmlid, the Swedish author of a book (“The Bread Exchange”) on bartering loaves of bread for items like homemade quince and luggage, got her start accidentally. As a relaxing break from her job in the fashion industry, she started making sourdough bread in 2007. Soon awash in loaves, she shared one with a friend who then thanked her by giving her a spare ticket to a Berlin Philharmonic concert. What else, Elmlid wondered, could she swap for bread? Over the years, the bread exchange idea caught on, and is now a burgeoning global phenomenon. The main reason: bread “has been crucial, its value recognized by all strata of society worldwide”, according to Elmlid. Tim Lewis, "One baker 12 countries, 1,400 loaves: the bread revolution", The Guardian (U.K.), September 13, 2014, © Guardian News and Media Limited

Domains FOOD TRENDS Advice & Policy Ingredients Marketplace Innovation New Ways of Eating Cereals & Bakery Trend Research & Commentary Geographies Worldwide EMEA Europe United Kingdom Germany Sweden

Supplement Makers Endorse Efforts To Develop Stricter Standards On Adulterated Ingredients September 8, 2014: 12:00 AM EST The umbrella group of trade associations representing dietary supplement makers has endorsed the efforts of a consortium of organizations trying to improve standards related to adulterated herb and botanical ingredients. Adulteration – substitution of a supplement ingredient with an undisclosed cheaper ingredient – presents a major challenge in the supplement industry because it cheats the consumer. The International Alliance of Dietary/Food Supplement Associations (IADSA) said the efforts of the ABC-AHP-NCNPR Botanical Adulterants Program would “help us move forward” to the goal of tighter standards and more trustworthy products. The consortium comprises nonprofit organizations, analytical laboratories, industry members, professional scientists and others. "IADSA Endorses Botanical Adulterants Program", Natural Products Insider, September 08, 2014, © Informa Exhibitions, LLC.

Domains FOOD TRENDS Advice & Policy Ingredients Supplements Regulation Geographies Worldwide North America United States of America

French Bakery Workers At High Risk Of Job-Related Asthma September 8, 2014: 12:00 AM EST Research presented at a recent European medical conference confirms that flour was the main cause of occupational asthma in 20 percent of 330 cases in France. Known as “baker’s asthma”, the condition occurs when flour – including its dust and enzymes – irritates the respiratory system, causing allergy-related symptoms. The second leading cause of occupational asthma was cleaning products containing ammonia (15 percent of cases). Workers in food manufacturing were at greater risk for asthma than farm workers, and women were at greater risk than men. Alexandra Sifferlin, "Flour Is the Main Cause of Work Related Asthma in France", Time, September 08, 2014, © Time, Inc.

Domains FOOD TRENDS Advice & Policy Ingredients Cereals & Bakery Safety Geographies Worldwide EMEA Europe France

Fruit Juice-Sweetened Carbonated Drinks Doing Well For Several Reasons September 7, 2014: 12:00 AM EST Consumption of ready-to-drink fruit juices has been declining in developed countries but, paradoxically, the use of fruit juice as a sweetener in sparkling waters and sodas is on the rise.  According to Euromonitor, fruit juice-sweetened carbonated drinks offer several advantages. They are lower in calories, so they can win back, or lure new, customers – especially older ones – by offering unfamiliar flavors that are “drier”. Using juices as sweeteners allows marketers to claim that the sugar is not added but naturally occurring. Lastly, fruit-flavored carbonates take advantage of the rise of the “cocktail culture” and growing interest in alcoholic mixed drinks. Howard Telford, "Premium Fruit Flavours Boost European Carbonates", Euromonitor International, September 07, 2014, © Euromonitor International

Domains FOOD TRENDS Advice & Policy Ingredients Marketplace New Formats New Products Flavors & Colors Fruit, Vegetables & Nuts Trend Research & Commentary Geographies Worldwide EMEA Europe United Kingdom France

Herbal Dietary Supplement Sales In U.S. Continue Strong September 3, 2014: 12:00 AM EST The value of the herbal dietary supplement market in the U.S. reached $6 billion for the first time in 2013, according to data published by the American Botanical Council. The 7.9 percent sales rise in 2013  was the tenth year in a row that sales increased. Mainstream market channel – including food, drug, and mass-market stores, plus club and convenience stores – increased 7.7 percent over 2012 sales. Sales in natural food stores did even better, rising 8.8 percent. The top-selling herbs of 2013 in the mainstream channel were horehound (throat drops), yohimbe (athletic performance and sexual enhancement), cranberry (urinary tract infections), black cohosh (menopause), and senna (laxative). "Herbal Dietary Supplement Retail Sales Up 7.9% in 2013", American Botanical Council, September 03, 2014, © American Botanical Council, unless otherwise noted

Domains FOOD TRENDS Advice & Policy Ingredients Marketplace Research Functional Foods Trend Research & Commentary Geographies Worldwide North America United States of America

Independent Restaurant Traffic Declines In 2nd Quarter September 2, 2014: 12:00 AM EST NPD Group reports that visits to independent restaurants dropped two percent in the second calendar quarter of this year, while visits to big chains remained flat and visits to small chains rose two percent. Chains have outperformed independents over the short- and long-term for the past five years, probably because independents lack the resources, marketing power, and business acumen of the big companies. When independents do succeed it’s usually because of loyal customers who appreciate quality food and a pleasurable dining experience. "Chains Keep Restaurant Traffic Stable While Visits to Independents Decline in Second Quarter, Reports NPD", Report, NPD Group, September 02, 2014, © The NPD Group, Inc.

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

The American Diet Is Improving, But Not By Much September 1, 2014: 12:00 AM EST An analysis of diet quality trends from 1999 to 2010 found that Americans increasingly ate more healthful foods, but there is a growing diet disparity between the affluent and disadvantaged. Dietary improvement was mainly due to the reduction in consumption of trans fats. Diet quality scores among people with more income and education were consistently higher than among poorer people, and the gap widened over the 11 years analyzed. The researchers stressed that despite improvement, overall dietary quality remains poor, presenting significant challenges for public policy and nutrition education. Dong D. Wang et al., "Trends in Dietary Quality Among Adults in the United States, 1999 Through 2010. ", JAMA Internal Medicine, September 01, 2014, © American Medical Association

Domains FOOD TRENDS Advice & Policy Bodily Needs Marketplace Research Consumers Diets Nutrition Trend Research & Commentary Geographies Worldwide North America United States of America

British GPs, Other Health Leaders, Recommend Urgent Action On Childhood Obesity September 1, 2014: 12:00 AM EST A group of British physicians has appealed to the U.K.’s chief medical officer to establish a Child Obesity Action Group to take "radical steps” to get the problem -- one fifth of four-to-five year olds are overweight or obese -- under control. Suggestions for action include levying taxes on sugary drinks to reformulating foods to reduce levels of sugar, salt, fat, etc. Unless urgent action is taken immediately, an entire generation will be "destroyed" by a "diet of junk food and sugary drinks", the Royal College of General Practitioners warned. Hannah Abdulla, "UK health leaders say obesity threat "severe", call for "emergency task force"", Just-Food, September 01, 2014, © just-food.com

Domains FOOD TRENDS Advice & Policy Bodily Needs Ingredients Diets Nutrition Junk Regulation Trend Research & Commentary Geographies Worldwide EMEA Europe United Kingdom

Online Snack Retailer In The Vanguard Of Grocery Shopping Trend September 1, 2014: 12:00 AM EST Direct-to-consumer online food retailing is emerging as a potential, if still small, threat to brick-and-mortar supermarkets. An example of the trend is NatureBox, which sells healthful snacks on its Web site. Following the Netflix model, NatureBox subscribers receive packages of multiple-serving snack bags each month. Products include Praline Pumpkin Seeds, Salted Caramel Pretzel Pops, and French Toast Granola, all made without artificial flavors, colors, sweeteners, or high fructose corn syrup. The company shipped 50,000 boxes in 2012 – the year it was founded – a million last year, and is expected to ship three million in 2014. NatureBox was named one of the 20 fastest-growing Web merchants in the U.S. Mary Ellen Kuhn, "Snacking by Subscription (Online Exclusive)", Institute of Food Technologists, September 01, 2014, © Institute of Food Technologists

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

Fermentation Gains Favor As Consumers Seek “Cleanly” Processed Specialty Foods September 1, 2014: 12:00 AM EST Foodies, nutritionists and others disdain industrial “processed foods” because of their salt, fat, sugar and chemical ingredient content. But a more ancient form of food processing, preserving and flavoring – fermentation – has caught their attention. Using microbes like yeast and lactic acid bacteria, fermentation dovetails with some major market trends: natural, minimally processed, few ingredients and healthful. Fermentation is being used to create a wide variety of specialty, craft and artisan foods, including yogurt, beer, cheese, kimchi, etc. David Despain, "The New Fermented Food Culture", Institute of Food Technologists, September 01, 2014, © Institute of Food Technologists

Domains FOOD TRENDS Advice & Policy Ingredients Marketplace New Formats Cultures, enzymes, yeast Trend Research & Commentary Geographies Worldwide North America United States of America

Major Changes In Food Production Are Necessary To Avoid Climate Change Calamities August 31, 2014: 12:00 AM EST British researchers, using what they call a “transparent, data-driven model”, show that reducing food waste by half and diverting global diets away from environmentally-damaging food products – making them more healthful -- might reduce greenhouse gases and boost food security. Currently, the global population is increasing and people’s food tastes are shifting to meat-heavy Western diets. Increased agricultural yields will not meet food demands, however, so more land will need to be cultivated, reducing forested areas and increasing methane emissions. Unless changes are implemented, food production by itself could exceed global targets for total greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 2050. Bojana Bajželj et al., "Importance of food-demand management for climate mitigation", Nature Climate Change, August 31, 2014, © Macmillan Publishers Limited

Domains FOOD TRENDS Advice & Policy Marketplace New Formats Research Trend Research & Commentary Geographies Worldwide EMEA Europe United Kingdom

Scientists Advise Only Limited Use Of Fluorochemicals In Food Packaging August 27, 2014: 12:00 AM EST Scientists in Denmark and elsewhere have issued a statement urging only essential use of fluorochemicals in food production and other applications. Fluorochemicals, applied  mainly as water-resistant coatings on food packaging, are difficult to break down and tend to accumulate in humans and the environment. They have been linked to harmful health effects such as cancer and fertility problems. Alternatives to fluorochemicals are being tested, but scientists urge that producers and suppliers investigate them thoroughly and make existing data on chemical and toxicological properties publically available. Xenia Trier, "Leading scientists call for a stop to non-essential use of fluorochemicals", DTU Food, August 27, 2014, © Technical University of Denmark

Domains FOOD TRENDS Advice & Policy Safety Geographies Worldwide EMEA Europe Denmark

The U.K. Takes A Fancy To The Breakfast-At-Dinner Trend August 26, 2014: 12:00 AM EST Restaurants in London are picking up on a broad dietary trend imported from the U.S.: eating breakfast at dinnertime. Known as “brinner”, 44 percent of Britons choose traditional breakfast foods for their evening meal. One London café opening soon plans to offer 100 cereals, 12 milks and 20 toppings; another restaurant serves muesli and yogurt with fruit salad, coffee, tea and fresh orange juice until 10 p.m. Many restaurants serves egg dishes all day, including The Wolseley, which dishes up Eggs Benedict until midnight. Duck and Waffle offers deviled duck egg all night long. On the home front, eggs, bacon butties (sandwiches) or fry-ups (full breakfast-style meals) are popular brinner choices. Victoria Stewart, "Take me to brinner: why #BreakfastForDinner is sweeping London", Standard.co.uk, August 26, 2014, © Evening Standard Limited

Domains FOOD TRENDS Advice & Policy Marketplace New Formats New Ways of Eating Trend Research & Commentary Geographies Worldwide EMEA Europe United Kingdom

Bakers Need To Solve Technical Issues Before Making Acceptable Low-Carb Breads August 26, 2014: 12:00 AM EST More innovative baked goods manufacturers have shown an increasing interest in providing low-carb products, if they can solve technical problems – formulation and processing -- inherent in the endeavor. In an interview, a bakery R&D consultant said low-carb bakery hasn’t yet “proven itself” but is an area of increased development activity and may reach the mainstream soon, thanks to demands from health-conscious consumers. To solve formulation problems, bakers are testing alternative flours to replace wheat, including teff, buckwheat, quinoa, lupin and soy. Processing problems include varying gelation temperatures for different flours, bread staling, moisture content and taste. Kacey Culliney, "Low-carb bakery to go mainstream, says expert", BakeryAndSnacks.com, August 26, 2014, © William Reed Business Media SAS

Domains FOOD TRENDS Bodily Needs Diets Geographies Worldwide North America EMEA United States of America Europe United Kingdom Germany

U.K. Vitamin D Intake Estimates Are Inaccurate, Misleading August 26, 2014: 12:00 AM EST British researchers found significant discrepancies between lists of vitamin D-fortified foods and vitamin D data gathered from industry Web sites, trade associations and manufacturers and government vitamin D databanks. They compared 289 foods fortified with vitamin D catalogued by the UK National Diet and Nutrition Survey (NDNS) Nutrient Databank in 2008 and 2010 to the data they compiled. They concluded that the U.K. should update vitamin D food and supplement content estimations because they underestimate population intake levels of the vitamin by about three percent. Shane Starling, "More vitamin D in UK foods than previously: Study", Food&DrinkEurope.com, August 26, 2014, © William Reed Business Media SAS

Domains FOOD TRENDS Ingredients Marketplace Research Functional Foods Vitamins Geographies Worldwide EMEA Europe United Kingdom

Online Tool Might Help Diet Supplement Advertisers Avoid FTC Fines August 19, 2014: 12:00 AM EST A trade association that represents diet supplement companies has developed a Web-based tool that members can use to avoid running afoul of FTC rules on weight loss and other spurious ad claims. Bogus claims made by weight loss supplement makers generate the highest settlement costs in the dietary supplement and functional food category, according to the Council for Responsible Nutrition, which developed the quarterly-updated online tool. Members can use the tool to view all available FTC advertising enforcement actions related to dietary supplements and functional foods since 2003. Bogus weight loss claims generated the highest settlement costs at $438.4 million, followed by immunity claims ($47.2 million) and impermissible cancer claims ($5 million). Nancy Stewart, "Weight Loss Supplement Claims Provide FTC with Steady Diet of Enforcement Initiatives, New CRN Analysis Shows", News release, Council for Responsible Nutrition, August 19, 2014, © The Council for Responsible Nutrition

Domains FOOD TRENDS Advice & Policy Bodily Needs Ingredients Diets Nutrition Functional Foods Supplements Regulation Geographies Worldwide North America United States of America

Studies Seek Root Causes Of Obesity In U.S. August 19, 2014: 12:00 AM EST A new $5 million study being conducted at NIH is designed to find out whether we get fat because we overeat or because of the foods we are eating. The Energy Balance Consortium Study is one of the first to be backed by a nonprofit whose goal is to finance meticulous tests of previously overlooked hypotheses. The Nutrition Science Initiative (or NuSI) is sponsoring three studies focused on the root causes of obesity and its related diseases. NuSI has hopes to raise $190 million over three years to fund follow-on studies whose overall goal is to cut obesity in the U.S. by more than half — and diabetes by 75 percent — in less than 15 years. Sam Apple, "Why Are We So Fat? The Multimillion-Dollar Scientific Quest to Find Out", Wired, August 19, 2014, © Condé Nast

Domains FOOD TRENDS Bodily Needs Marketplace Research Consumers Diets Nutrition Geographies Worldwide North America United States of America

Consumer Interest In Non-GMO Foods Continues To Grow August 19, 2014: 12:00 AM EST Consumer interest in buying foods that contain no genetically modified organisms (GMO) is not flagging. Sales of verified non-GMO foods soared 80 percent last year, and the movement continues to accelerate, thanks to state GMO labeling victories, retailer-initiated labeling requirements and growing consumer demand for GMO transparency. According to the Center for Food Safety, more than 60 bills have been introduced in 20 states requiring GMO labeling or prohibiting genetically engineered foods. Voters in Oregon and Colorado will vote on GMO labeling bills in the fall, a sure sign that non-GMO awareness gaining a foothold. Jenna Blumenfeld et al, "Non-GMO food sales growing, according to new NBJ research (infographic)", NewHope360.com, August 19, 2014, © Penton

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

Chinese Shoppers See California As An Exporter Of High-Quality Foods August 18, 2014: 12:00 AM EST Food shoppers in China and Hong Kong are paying closer attention to nutrition, sustainability, safety and – logically enough – country of origin, a fact that is driving demand for better quality food products. That’s good news for California food exporters, who are perceived by the Chinese as high quality producers. California has exported about $4 billion worth of food products – fresh produce, health foods, organic foods and premium wines – to Hong Kong and China so far in 2014, a nearly 20 percent increase over 2012. Forecasters see a similar double-digit increase by the end of the year. Stephen Las Marias, "Hong Kong, China Food Imports from California to Exceed $4B amid Mounting Food Scares", Asia Food Journal, August 18, 2014, © Contineo Media Pte Ltd.

Domains FOOD TRENDS Advice & Policy Ingredients Marketplace Research Fruit, Vegetables & Nuts Natural & Organic Safety Trend Research & Commentary Geographies Worldwide North America Asia-Pacific United States of America China Hong Kong

Successful Restaurant Menu Design Tricks Can Help Diners Choose Healthful Meals August 17, 2014: 12:00 AM EST The design and layout of a restaurant menu strongly influence diners’ food choices, according to Cornell University hospitality management researchers. Their study analyzed 217 menus and the meal selections of 300 diners, finding that food items printed in colored or boldface type, or highlighted or set apart in a box, strongly influence selection, especially of profitable items. Also, high-margin menu items given descriptive names – “succulent Italian seafood filet” vs. just “seafood filet” – convince diners that they taste better and therefore are chosen more often, even if priced higher and perhaps less healthful. The researchers suggested that restaurants could use the two tricks – catching attention and sparking imagination – to encourage diners to buy more healthful high margin items. Brian Wansink et al., "Slim by Design: Menu Engineering Strategies for Promoting High-Margin, Healthy Foods", Social Science Research Network, August 17, 2014, © Social Science Electronic Publishing, Inc.

Domains FOOD TRENDS Bodily Needs Marketplace Research Diets Nutrition Geographies Worldwide North America United States of America

Washington State Couple Cultivates Ancient Variety Of Wheat August 15, 2014: 12:00 AM EST Whether or not they represent the vanguard of a foodie trend is impossible to say, but a couple in central Washington State is devoted to raising and selling an ancient variety of wheat known as emmer. And the products of Bluebird Grain Farms have found a market among regional chefs who used to import emmer from Italy. The couple not only cultivates emmer, they store and mill the grain to make sure of its integrity from “plow to plate”. Sam and Brooke Lucy sell to chefs, but also peddle finished emmer-based baked products online: cereal, pancake and waffle mixes, and flour for baking cookies, muffins, breads and wide-noodle pasta. "Ancient waves of grain", Capital Press, August 15, 2014, © Capital Press

Domains FOOD TRENDS Ingredients Marketplace New Formats Cereals & Bakery Geographies Worldwide North America United States of America

No Way To Sugar-Coat It: Breakfast Cereal Sales Are Hurting August 14, 2014: 12:00 AM EST Sales of breakfast cereals continue to tumble. Overall, between 2009 and 2010, cereal sales dropped a “nauseating” – AdWeek’s term – 6.3 percent, according to Mintel. Kellogg reported recently that sales of its cereal products fell 4.9 percent, contributing to a 15 percent slide in profit. AdWeek cites several market factors at work in these disturbing numbers. The number one reason is the perception that cereals are too loaded with sugar, contributing to the childhood obesity epidemic. Other factors: concerns about gluten sensitivity, increasing competition from highly portable snack bars and yogurt, and the fact that more and more people just skip breakfast altogether. Robert Klara, "Why Don't Americans Like Breakfast Cereal Anymore?", AdWeek, August 14, 2014, © Adweek

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

Superfoods: A Somewhat Elusive Food Category Despite A Lot Of Publicity August 13, 2014: 12:00 AM EST America’s growing love affair with nutrient-rich “superfoods” is apparently grounded in the belief – held by 75 percent of consumers – that health can be managed through nutrition. Marketers of such foods rely heavily on the well-reported findings of scientific and medical researchers. But which foods are superfoods? Nielsen compiled a list of 41 “powerhouse fruits and vegetables” that contain at least 10 percent daily value of 17 nutrients per 100 calories. On the list: kale, iceberg lettuce, tomatoes, strawberries, oranges, carrots, watercress, Chinese cabbage, chard, beet greens, and spinach. Excluded were raspberries, tangerines, cranberries, garlic, onions, blueberries, pomegranate, quinoa, and wheat berry. Venessa Wong, "The Church of Superfoods Gains More Believers", Bloomberg Businessweek, August 13, 2014, © Bloomberg L.P.

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

Older Food Shoppers Want Convenience In The Products They Buy August 12, 2014: 12:00 AM EST Market researcher Canadean says a growing number of older consumers are looking for convenience in the foods and other products they buy. In response, food companies are redesigning packages to make them easier for older people with less wrist and hand strength to open. Snack nut maker Emerald, for example, addresses the needs of older shoppers by offering products that are not only high in protein, but also easier to open and thus “fully accessible to its target audience”, according to a Canadean analyst. More than 17 percent of older consumers are now motivated by the need for convenience when shopping for food. "Older consumers are seeking convenience in food", Report, Canadean, August 12, 2014, © Canadean Ltd. Part of Progressive Digital Media Group Plc

Domains FOOD TRENDS Marketplace New Formats Research Geographies Worldwide North America Asia-Pacific United States of America China

Storm Of Criticism Over FDA’s “Spent Grain” Rule Misses The Mark August 10, 2014: 12:00 AM EST A University of Maryland law professor believes all of the recent criticism of the FDA for a proposed rule governing the use of brewers’ spent grain as animal feed was a typical anti-bureaucracy tempest in a teapot. Breweries have long donated or sold the leftover, or spent, grain to farmers to feed livestock. Washington legislators, especially from brewery-rich Maine, complained bitterly that the FDA’s tightened rules were typical bureaucratic meddling that would make the practice prohibitively expensive. Rena Steinzor, however, said a close reading of the proposed rule finds that it was only written to ensure that dangerous pathogens do not find their way into the livestock feed supply. Rena Steinzor, "The story chastising bureaucrats for making it hard for breweries to recycle used grain for animal feed fit a formula, not the facts.", Portland (Maine) Press Herald, August 10, 2014, © MaineToday Media, Inc.

Domains FOOD TRENDS Advice & Policy Ingredients Cereals & Bakery Regulation Safety Geographies Worldwide North America United States of America

Indifference To Brown Rice Puts Malaysians At Greater Risk For Diabetes August 9, 2014: 12:00 AM EST Healthier alternatives to white rice – namely, brown rice, low-carb noodles, etc. – have not caught on in Malaysia and other Asia-Pacific countries, intensifying the risk of obesity and diabetes in the region. A study published in May reported that 48.6 percent of Malaysian women and 43.8 percent of men are either overweight or obese, thanks mainly to a diet based heavily on white rice in the “most obese” country in Asia. Malaysian health officials are urging their countrymen to break the white rice habit. But it’s an uphill battle: Euromonitor sees almost no market in the country for more healthful brown rice. Simone Baroke, "White Rice Exacerbates Diabetes Threat in Asia Pacific", Euromonitor International, August 09, 2014, © Euromonitor International

Domains FOOD TRENDS Advice & Policy Bodily Needs Ingredients Marketplace Research Consumers Diets Nutrition Whole Grains Trend Research & Commentary Geographies Worldwide Asia-Pacific Malaysia

Almonds Knock The Shells Off Peanuts In America’s Battle Of The Dietary Nuts August 6, 2014: 12:00 AM EST Is it really possible that Americans eat more almonds than peanuts every year? Yes, excluding peanut butter, according to recent research. Demand for almonds has grown by more than 220 percent over the last nine years. Apparently Americans are no longer worried about the fat content of almonds, and are more enamored of the protein content, a fact reflected in the decline in meat consumption. But almonds are also at the nexus of other rising dietary trends. There is a growing demand for healthy, appetite-suppressing snacks, and a growing interest in vegetarianism and veganism. Roberto A. Ferdman, "The rise of the American almond craze in one nutty chart", The Washington Post, August 06, 2014, © The Washington Post

Domains FOOD TRENDS Advice & Policy Bodily Needs Ingredients Consumers Diets Fruit, Vegetables & Nuts Functional Foods Trend Research & Commentary Geographies Worldwide North America United States of America

Farms, Bakeries On Central Calif. Coast Benefit From Demand For Locally-Grown Grains August 5, 2014: 12:00 AM EST Farms in the Santa Cruz, Calif., area that have been active in the “locavore” movement of year-round, locally-grown produce have been experimenting with a variety of grains, including quinoa (actually a seed) and wheat. An experimental farm located on UC Santa Cruz land has been testing the marketability of several grains, finding that “customers seem to really like quinoa”. The farm says it will increase plantings of quinoa in the 2015 season to meet demand. Farms in the area are also partnering with local bakeries to supply wheat flour. One such bakery sells a “Local Loaf” – made from 100 percent locally produced flour – that sells out quickly, though it’s only available for a limited time at the bakery itself and at two farmers markets. Tara Fatemi Walker, "Waves of Grain: Ever-growing grain movement taking root in Santa Cruz County", Santa Cruz Sentinel, August 05, 2014, © The Santa Cruz Sentinel

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

Food Industry Loves The Growing American Obsession With Snacking August 4, 2014: 12:00 AM EST It’s a little hard to tell whether food companies are reacting to, or creating, the increased interest in snacking. Whichever, the trend is real. Sales of snack bars are up and chain eateries are doing whatever they can to attract the attention of the P.M. snack crowd. A Nielsen survey of 1,139 consumers finds that 91 percent admit to snacking every day. Twenty-five percent said they snack as much as five times a day. Women prefer chocolate, candy or cookies, while men like the salty fare, including pretzels and chips. “Clearly, snacking is a trend, a positive trend,” says General Mills CEO Ken Powell. “We are very focused on the snacking trend.” Venessa Wong, "Americans Cannot Stop Snacking", Bloomberg Businessweek, August 04, 2014, © BLOOMBERG L.P.

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

Entrepreneur Sees Crickets As The Next Culinary Sensation August 2, 2014: 12:00 AM EST The entrepreneur who founded Bitty Foods, a company focused on using crickets as ingredients in baked goods, believes she’s on the leading edge of an emerging culinary sensation bigger than quinoa. She first tasted – and liked – cooked mealworms and crickets on trips to Southeast Asia and Mexico. Back home she did some experimenting and eventually launched her current business. Roasted mealworms have a nutty flavor, and could appeal to people following the Paleo diet, says Megan Miller, but they have one major drawback: they trigger Americans’ gag reflex. Crickets, however, evoke memories of  “pleasant summer nights and crickets chirping”. Claire Martin, "Jiminy Cricket! Bugs Could Be Next Food Craze", The New York Times, August 02, 2014, © The New York Times Company

Domains FOOD TRENDS Advice & Policy Ingredients Marketplace Innovation New Formats Cereals & Bakery Proteins, non-dairy Trend Research & Commentary Geographies Worldwide North America United States of America