In 2015, we launched the "Best New Snack & Bakery Products" of the year contest to honor outstanding new snack and bakery products entering the industry, with the online SF&WB audience voting for their favorites.

Vegan & vegetarian options continue to grow in popularity as meat alternatives rise.

Depending on who you ask, either taste or convenience is king. Luckily, manufacturers of snack, nutrition, granola and other bar products delivering on both counts more often than not these days.

The 2019 Taste/Tomorrow event that took place in Chicago from May 1 to 2 provided a platform for Puratos to release its latest body of independent global research into top bakery, patisserie and chocolate trends shaping today's marketplace.

So much of this industry is about creating meaningful connections. Successful products that generate long-lasting repeat purchase patters resonate with their consumers.

By now, is there anything we don't know about Generation Z? Born from 1996 through 2014, these 4- to 23-year-olds learn with their eyes and share appealing images via social media. They're environmentally aware and socially conscious. Most embrace cultural diversity.

Trends in snack mixes and nuts are constantly changing, but many also remain the same, as consumers are constantly searching for better-for-you snacks and the next "big thing."

Every new year, people make resolutions to break bad habits or start good ones. Generally, everyone is focused on self-improvement and wellness.

I'll sell you on lean and efficiencies, if you'll buy into change and experimentation.

When it comes to snack and bakery products that feature dairy ingredients, consumers are demanding flavor innovations, as well as clean label and environmentally friendly dynamics.