If you’ve been following along, you saw I went to Expo West again. IKYMI – Read my recap Part 1 and Part 2 and check out my Instagram post and Instagram story highlights “Expo West ’22.”
Top 5 New Trends I Noticed at Expo West
Pre-pandemic the top trends that I saw were plant based everything, healthier kids snacks and foods and the 4 c’s (collagen, cauliflower, coffee and coconut) and hidden veggies and prepared veggies. Also, CBD was in everything and Keto (fat) was king. Oats and tea were really big in a variety of use cases. Plant based, keto, oats and teas are still in. CBD is around but was less of a focus at this show.
1. There was a big focus on diversity and inclusion and many women and minority owned brands were showcased. It was great to see a focus on diversity of both products and tastes and brand leaders. There were so many kick ass women owned brands. I especially loved going to Heywell‘s happy hour with Gather brands. They’re a women owned consulting agency for women owned/female found companies in the CPG space.
2. Strong focus on immunity and a renewed focus on Cardio health. There were a ton of supplements. I noticed a continued focus on immunity and discussed Cardio health with Youtheory. and a few other brands. I’ve been using Cardio Probiotics from Floradapt and am excited to try Youtheory’s new K2D3 combo for Cardio Health. I got a bunch of immunity blends from Solaray and others to share.
3. Focus on all natural comfort foods and treats. In addition to the usual “healthified” versions of comfort foods, there was a resurgence of baked goods and treats made with organic ingredients. I got wonderful brioche from St. Pierre’s Bakery, cookies from Levain bakery and Dewey’s Bakery and tried all kinds of pizzas, pastas and cookies.
4. Functional ingredients are IN – especially in your drinks. There were a TON of beverages on offer. Many had adaptogens and other functional ingredients. The ingredients are meant to boost immunity, make your skin glow and help your gut health. There were a few mushroom enhanced coffees and many products made with mushrooms (including Country Archer’s delicious new plant based jerky line). Mushrooms are nutrient dense and have a variety of health benefits.
5. Sustainability, upcycling and climate friendly products are in. Brands are focusing on using all parts of plants and not wasting resources. Compostable packaging and “climate friendly” products were very popular. Some of the most interesting ones I tried were Blue Strips Cacao Water (made from byproducts of the chocolate making process), Ocean Sprays cranberry seeds and Oteas compostible tea bags.
Which of these trends interests you most?
I’m linking up with Darlene, Michelle, Renee, Jenn and Zenaida, for Fit Five Friday. Join us!
Have a great weekend!