Beverage Trends Highlighted at Trade Show
The National Restaurant Association recently had a show in Chicago where exciting new beverage trends were revealed. Premiumization continues, with elevation coming from flavor, texture, and even the way drinks are prepared. Functional drinks and beverages with benefits are still trending (think collagen for skin and beauty, digestive benefits from kombucha, and turmeric to help calm inflammation). Sugar reduction is also huge in beverage innovation. Lower-calorie substitutes such as monk fruit, stevia, and erythritol are taking the stage as folks are choosing low-sugar and no-sugar beverages. Moral of this story? More folks are sipping to good health!
Summertime Snacking
Frito-Lay’s Snacking Index
Ahh the first Friday of June. Looking forward to backyard barbeques, picnics, beach days, and finally some Vitamin D! Did you know that according to retail sales data, the week of July 4th is the biggest snacking week of the entire year for Frito-Lay? And, per a report released by Frito-Lay, different chips are hits during different summer gigs. For example, potato chips are winners when it comes to backyard barbeques, with 51% of folks bringing them to these gatherings. Even more interesting, 70% will stick to the classics when it comes to flavors. Going to a rooftop gathering? Most folks will opt for corn and tortilla chips. For a pool or beach trip, both potato chips and tortilla chips do well in these adventures. No matter your chip of choice, 90% of Americans see snacking as important to summer occasions.
Yours Truly,
Tracie T.