The trade show floor at Natural Products Expo East was teeming with a plant-based, all-natural array of food and beverage products. Companies from across the United States were out in full force, ready to share what they’ve been developing in the past year and a half. And what an 18 months it’s been. The global pandemic has shifted consumer preferences and changed the dynamics of the entire food industry.
During the “Understanding Your Consumer: New Research on Perceptions of Health” session at Expo East, speakers shared some of the latest research on what drives modern consumers to make purchasing decisions in a (hopeful) post-COVID world.
The Changing Consumer Survey from New Hope Network’s NEXT Data & Insights took a nationally representative sample of 1,000 U.S. consumers age 16 and older, and it found that there is a meaningful shift in how consumers define health. And the reflection is happening in product development and releases, showcasing a state of mind across categorized generations.
For example, older consumers in the study are looking for more general physical health and wellness in their product choices, focused on acute issues and food and beverages that include ingredients that can help. Conversely, younger consumers are seeking products that aid in mood boosting and alleviate stress. They are more habitual in the research of products that market some sort of health benefit.
No matter what demographic the market may reach, walnuts were a key plant-based ingredient in a number of show floor offerings. For more information on the nutritional benefits of walnuts, take a bite out of the Nutrition section on walnuts.org. But first, take a look at these innovative new products:
Organic Oh Mega Mix, Organic Chia Walnuts, Elan
Elan came to Expo East with two made-with-walnuts snack mixes. Oh Mega Mix blends walnuts with dark chocolate, dried cranberries, dried banana chips and goji berry powder for a powerhouse of omega-3 snackability. Organic Chia Walnuts also include goji berry powder, blended with a touch of organic coconut sugar — a perfect combination of sweet and savory. Add to breakfast cereal, yogurt, salads — or just take the bag and snack throughout the day.
Tropical Trail Mix, Ferris Coffee & Nut Co.
No matter what time of year, this nutty and fruity trail mix will transport you to the islands in just one bite. Walnuts, raisins, dried pineapple, banana chips, dried apricots and dried cranberries are all invited to the party in this best-selling mix, according to the company. The resealable one-pound bag is ready to go with you, wherever your travels may take you.
Have a Ball Organic Fruit & Nut Snacks, Sunny Fruit
The packaging alone entices us to grab a pack. Fig & Walnut balls from Sunny Fruit are coated with coconut, and they are non-GMO, vegan, gluten-free, dairy-free and kosher. They were a truly unique made-with-walnuts product on the show floor.
