State of the Industry

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When it comes to convenient breakfast options, consumers are looking for products that meet their dietary needs without sacrificing flavor or taste.

The past year has provided several key indicators that fresh bread products, including packaged bread, bagels, and English muffins, are gaining new levels of consumer interest.

Whether consumers are looking to eat breakfast on the go, refuel after a workout, or indulge in a tasty but nutritious treat, there are more choices than ever when it comes to bars.

The 1859 Charles Dickens classic historical novel "A Tale of Two Cities" begins with a statement of startling extremes, "It was the best of times, it was the worst of times…"

Today's foodservice market across the U.S. continues to reflect ongoing consumer desires for interesting and adventuresome flavors, items inspired by global cuisine, and better-for-you options; often where logically applicable, such as in items like hearty breads, muffins, and other baked goods that consumers accept as aligned with inherently nutritious dietary choices.

Tortilla chips are a party staple. And while traditional versions still soundly resonate with the masses, chip manufacturers have been experimenting with new and interesting flavors, as well as better-for-you versions like organic options and chips based on vegetables or legumes.

According to the "Top 10 Trend Predictions for 2019" from SPINS, Chicago, internationally inspired innovation in nuts and seeds is gaining ground. SPINS says that nuts and seeds are watch-worthy because they're not only protein-rich and easy to eat, but they deliver antioxidants and long-lasting energy.

Puffed and extruded snacks cover a lot of ground: from cheese snacks to multigrain chips and pork rinds, they dominate the snack aisle. And they span a wide range of snacking occasions, from fun and indulgent to mindfully better-for-you.

Many snack producers are adding interesting flavors and ingredients to their pretzels. Recent product introductions include pretzel nuggets filled with peanut butter and dark chocolate, as well as more gluten-free options.

Ready-to-eat (RTE) popcorn continues to find a willing audience at both ends of the dietary spectrum, with both health-forward and indulgent options seeing growth.