Articles by Liz Parker Kuhn

September is Whole Grains Month, and the Boston-based non-profit Oldways Whole Grains Council (WGC) is encouraging people everywhere to join the celebration by supporting “Good Grains for a Good Cause.”

Earlier this month, I was able to fly to Bismarck, North Dakota, for a 1-day trip sponsored by the National Sunflower Association (NSA). 

A few weeks ago, Royal Hawaiian Orchards CEO Scott Wallace gained FDA approval to claim that macadamia nuts can help reduce the risk of coronary heart disease.

Per IRI, Chicago, the salty snacks category was valued at $22.6 billion for the 52 weeks ending April 16, 2017—a number that encompasses potato chips, tortilla chips, extruded/puffed snacks including cheese puffs, ready-to-eat (RTE) popcorn, corn chips, pretzels and pork rinds—and sales were up 3.60 percent for the year (see the July “State of the Industry—Snacks” issue for detailed category data).

A few weeks ago, I was able to travel to Bellingham, Washington, for the Raspberry Harvest Tour, which was sponsored by the National Processed Raspberry Council.

The chips market has grown highly diversified over the past several years. In 2017, a chip can run the gamut, including standard potato chips, chips made out of fruits or vegetables, and multigrain options.

Within the past few years, choices for popcorn flavors have become more diverse. In 2017, you can choose to eat popcorn straight from the bag, made in the microwave, or even drizzled with chocolate. Consumers can even choose from flavors like honey butter and ranch. For today’s popcorn fans, this category offers more snacking options than ever before.

Last week, I was in Vegas for IFT17, the Institute of Food Technologists' annual show, where I saw and sampled many new variations on familiar themes.

Snack mix and nut products have extended their reach over the past year as consumers continue to seek varieties that are full of flavor innovation and adventure. “On-the-go” snack packs also appeal to consumers, and some have bold, new flavors that will make them stand out on the grocery store shelves.