Fi Global Insights looks back at some of the food and drink industry’s highlights of 2024. From food policy changes to ingredient innovations, we’ve rounded up our most read stories of the year.
December 24, 2024
NutriScore has updated its algorithm and some products, such as sugar-sweetened yoghurt drinks, now have a worse score. The result is a boon for public health, say researchers – but some brands are not happy.
Canadian startup ZeroIN has ambitions to carve out a whole new sweetener category from soluble fibres that have been chemically modified so their sweetness is on a par with sugar.
By offering a clean-label, eco-friendly alternative to artificial preservatives, Chinova Bioworks says its mushroom fibre ingredient “disrupts the preservation category”.
As consumers become more health-conscious and regulatory pressures intensify, the industry is increasingly looking at healthy reformulation – and food manufacturers are finding more salt and fat reduction solutions that maintain taste and functionality.
Better support is needed for coeliacs to increase the effectiveness of the gluten-free diet – and culturally appropriate new product development (NPD) is crucial, says one gastroenterology dietitian.
The “humanisation” of pets means domestic animals are increasingly treated as members of the family and pet food trends reflect this, with vegan options on the rise. But can cats and dogs thrive on a plant-based or “plant-forward” diet?
Read the full article here.
Packaged bread is increasingly seen as an ultra-processed food (UPF). But product innovation can help, says Modern Baker, which uses viscous fibres, prebiotics, and a manufacturing “hack” to produce its clean label Superloaf.
As US authorities prepare to end the Generally Recognised As Safe (GRAS) self-affirmation loophole, we look at the history of this “major flaw” in food policy and the implications for food safety going forward.
Slowing rates of economic growth and shifting consumer priorities are altering demand for food and beverage products in China, with consumers prioritising value-for-money, convenience, and health.
Three plant-based meat companies shared their insights on building credibility, adapting products for local markets, and shifting consumer perceptions.
