The latest news, trends, analysis, interviews and podcasts from the global food and beverage industry
As we approach the end of 2023, the FoodBev Media team reflects on the year gone by and presents their thoughts and predictions for the food and beverage industry in the upcoming year. Join us as we explore what’s on the menu for 2024.
Louis Porcelli, social media & campaigns executive In sport, it’s all about the fine margins and competitive gains. Athletes are trying to perfect each component that contributes to their performance. And the same goes for esports (electronic sports). According to Statista, the esports market worldwide is projected to reach a revenue of $3.8bn in 2023. Gaming in households grew during the Covid-19 pandemic, with the demand to socialise digitally. Hand-eye coordination, quick decision-making, concentration and maintaining focus are all important skills for gamers. As the gaming community grew, food, beverage and dietary supplement brands joined the market, and will continue to offer solutions to improve gaming capabilities in 2024. During Vitafoods Europe 2023, Givaudan showcased Cereboost, an American ginseng extract that they say is clinically proven to improve concentration, working memory, calmness and self-confidence, and reduce mental fatigue. This smart adaptogen ingredient is designed to be incorporated into capsules and gummies. Companies that can offer gamers and esport enthusiasts something new and convenient. Snacking is also a mainstay of the gaming world. Doritos unveiled what it says is the “first-ever” silent chip, Doritos Silent. The new concept is powered by ‘Crunch Cancellation’ technology, where the sound of someone’s voice is separated in real-time from the noise of the crisps’ crunch. The AI then works to stop the crunch audio from being sent down to the microphone – meaning gamers can snack without it distracting them from their game. As the gaming and esports industry undergoes rapid growth and diversification, a parallel evolution is underway in food and beverage manufacturing, with an increasing focus on catering to this dynamic market.
James Taylor, awards marketing executive
As we raise our glasses to a new year, packaging design has proved to be a vital ingredient for success in the food and beverage industry. The design of a product has become pivotal in driving consumer choices and brand perception. A consumer’s immediate impression of a product comes from its design in the context of its surroundings, whether on a store shelf or an online marketplace. Hence, innovative packaging must visually captivate while effectively communicating the products' benefits and setting themselves apart from neighbouring competitors. Brands are therefore increasingly leveraging design to express their individuality, tell a story and forge a connection with their audience. This evolution goes beyond traditional product marketing; it’s about establishing trust and becoming a reliable brand. The role of transparency here can’t be understated either. Authenticity extends beyond a promise on a label; it hinges on the actions brands make. Consumers are discerning and value brands that can walk the talk. Packaging design has transitioned from being a vessel to increase sales to becoming a trusted friend, which fosters brand loyalty. It’s about captivating, connecting and credibility.
Jesús Luna-López, sales director According to the UN, the world population is projected to reach 8.5 billion in 2030, which will create bigger challenges for food manufacturers. Innovation will be determined by volume, safety, sustainability, affordability and health, which will continue to be the demand of consumers. This will be aided by technology and equipment such aseptic, HPP, UHT, and inspecting and analytical instrumentation (among others), which will continue to evolve. For instance, instruments that measure the solubility of vitamins, minerals, proteins and fats.; or multi-filling technologies that can handle different packaging materials, temperatures and save water and energy in general. Nutrition and health Clean label and ingredients profile will be accentuated. Sugar reduction technologies such as enzymes, taste profiling and reformulations on existing speciality sweeteners will be at the top of the agenda for product development. In addition, functional ingredients that are closer to nature – such as botanicals, pre-pro biotics, collagen, proteins and nootropics. Almighty macros Whether from animals or plants, we will see new products on the shelves that will use fewer ingredients, contributing to a healthier lifestyle. For example, yogurts and desserts will continue the trend of incorporating high-quality proteins, real fruit and reduced sugars. Meanwhile, protein bars will continue opening spaces within the lifestyle category by adding blends for a uniform consumer.
Will Field, awards consultant
In the F&B industry, AI and robotics serve as a catalyst for operational excellence. By automating and refining processes, it not only boosts productivity but also paves the way for substantial cost savings. Whether it's elevating quality control through automation or predicting maintenance needs, AI empowers businesses to operate with heightened efficiency, ultimately slashing costs and enhancing overall profitability. While the myriad benefits and possibilities of AI and robotics are evident, its adoption in the F&B industry is still relatively nascent. Anticipate a surge in innovation and unique applications in the coming year. From revolutionising the factory floor to reshaping the creation of final products, AI is poised to transform the industry's mindset. AI will enhance food safety and production efficiency, personalise customer experiences and enable sustainable practices.
Jonathan McGowan, awards marketing executive While health and wellbeing are significant trends in the F&B space, consumers are still seeking moments of indulgence and luxury. Desserts and confectionery help to achieve this and have always held a cherished place in the hearts of consumers. Ongoing innovations continue to pique interest, offering a smörgåsbord of sweet possibilities for businesses and consumers alike. A recent report by T. Hasegawa highlights a preference among consumers for simplicity in sweet offerings. They lean towards familiar products and ingredients, seeking comfort and nostalgia in their treats. According to Mintel research, 48% of people say that texture is an important part of the overall experience of eating desserts. Brands looking to enhance indulgence can layer flavours and textures to help products stand out in a saturated market. Additionally, more than 39% of consumers are interested in unique flavour pairings within the dessert category. The landscape is witnessing an expansion of brand and product partnerships, signalling exciting collaborations and limited-edition creations on the horizon.
David Echevarría, news reporter Cocktail lovers often wish they could enjoy their favourite drinks without having to do the shaking and stirring themselves – enter the RTD. This year, we’ve seen a bevy of RTDs released and there seems to be no signs of the category slowing, from bar quality cocktails to hard iced coffees and a plethora of non-alcoholic options. Alcoholic coffee RTDs seem to be something of a hit, with Howie’s Spiked hard latte line, called Alc-A-Chino, made with distilled vodka and standing at 13.5% ABV. September saw coffee-flavoured whiskey brand Kentucky Coffee enter the RTD category with the launch of its new cold brew range, boasting three flavours with 5.9% ABV. Also in September, BrewDog Distilling Co announced the launch Wonderland Cocktails, a new collection of five RTD “bar quality” cocktails. The new beverages include Classic Mojito, Classic Margarita, Espresso Martini, Cantarito Paloma and Passionfruit Martini. The range is designed with an innovative feature, the cans contain differing volumes of liquid, allowing consumers to shake specific cocktails to aerate the product and deliver a smoothness of serve and additional texture. Given the popularity and rising number of innovations emerging in the RTD category, there is no predicting what 2024 has in store.
