Anuga

🧋At Anuga where the future of food is being shaped, a sobering fact calls for reflection: sugary beverages are at the heart of a global health challenge. A landmark study by Tufts University, published in Nature Medicine, highlights the impact—sugar-sweetened drinks were linked to 2.2 million new diabetes cases and 1.1 million new heart disease cases in 2020 alone. 🌍 A Global Epidemic with Unequal Impact While the dangers of sugary drinks are widely known, this study exposes the disproportionate burden on low- and middle-income countries: Latin America & the Caribbean – Nearly 1 in 4 new diabetes cases are linked to sugary drinks. Sub-Saharan Africa – A 21% rise in diabetes cases and 11% increase in heart disease cases tied to sugary beverages. Mexico & South Africa – Taxation has been introduced, but consumption rates remain dangerously high. 🧪 Why Are Sugary Drinks So Harmful? Unlike whole foods, sugar-sweetened beverages deliver a rapid spike in blood sugar, leading to: Insulin resistance → A key driver of type 2 diabetes Chronic inflammation → Elevating risk for heart disease Weight gain & metabolic dysfunction → Linked to obesity & liver disease 🚀 What Can the Food Industry Do? At Anuga, the call for responsible product innovation has never been more critical. To address this growing health challenge, industry leaders are encouraged to: Reformulate – Create low-sugar and functional beverage options Enhance Transparency – Empower consumers with clear, informative labeling Drive Education – Tackle the impact of marketing and social media on youth consumption 🔮 Shaping a Healthier Future As the world's leading food and beverage trade fair, Anuga provides a platform to reimagine the role of sugar in our diets. The future of beverages lies in creating healthier, more sustainable options that don’t compromise on taste or well-being. 💬 What’s your take? Should the industry take stronger action against sugary drinks? Let’s discuss! WE ARE ANUGA.

Raise Your Glass to Innovation: Welcome to Anuga Drinks! 🥤🍹 Anuga Drinks is the ultimate destination for the global beverage industry, bringing together innovation, tradition and the latest trends under one roof. Whether it’s refreshing soft drinks, premium spirits, functional beverages or emerging alcohol alternatives, this is where beverage innovation comes to life. 📊 Anuga Drinks at a glance: 579 exhibitors, with 90.8% from international markets. 55,342 visitors, of which 80% are international professionals. ✨ What to Expect at Anuga Drinks 2025: Innovative Beverage Trends: From sustainable choices to health-focused functional drinks, explore the latest must-haves shaping the future of beverages. Exceptional Networking: Connect with key industry players, retailers and innovators from across the globe. Exciting New Launches: Discover limited-edition specials, alcohol-free alternatives and collaborations driving excitement in the market. 💡 Trends Shaping the Beverage Industry: Hydration Meets Beauty: Drinks linking hydration with skin health have skyrocketed, growing by +109% CAGR(2021-2023), showcasing consumer interest in beauty-enhancing functional beverages. Health-Focused Drinks: Vitamin- and mineral-enriched beverages are booming, growing at +10% CAGR, while fiber-enriched options are seeing a significant +18% CAGR (2021-2023). Limited Editions & Collaborations: Limited-release beverages and brand partnerships are creating buzz, growing +17% annually, with iced teas leading the way at +44% CAGR over the past five years. The Move Away from Alcohol: With 37% of consumers reducing or avoiding alcohol, the demand for low- and no-alcohol options has surged, achieving a +26% CAGR (2019-2023). 📅 Mark Your Calendars Join us at Anuga Drinks 2025 in Cologne, Germany and immerse yourself in a showcase of groundbreaking trends, fresh opportunities and global inspiration. 💬 What trends are you most excited about in the beverage industry? Share your thoughts below.

🍽️ The food industry is being reshaped by the growing demand for convenience food and snacking, as manufacturers adapt to evolving consumer preferences. With busy lifestyles becoming the norm, traditional ready meals are seeing a decline in favor of on-the-go snacking options. To stay competitive, the ready-meal sector is now innovating to recapture consumer interest and align with these shifting habits. 🚀 To boost sales and meet consumer expectations, brands are focusing on: Clean-label positioning Diverse international flavors Sustainable packaging solutions Targeted portion sizes 🌟 Capitalizing on Emerging Trends Snacking has long been a staple of daily routines, but shifting consumer perceptions are redefining what qualifies as a snack. As convenience continues to dominate purchasing decisions, demand for diverse snacking options is poised for further growth. Data from Innova Market Insights highlights this trend, revealing an average annual growth rate of 6% in snack product launches over the past five years, outpacing the 4% growth seen in the ready-meal category. 🥫🍫 Convenience & Snacking Across Categories The table below showcases the food and beverage market categories leading in product launches with a focus on convenience: Top Categories: Sauces & Seasonings – 11.5% Bakery – 10.2% Snacks – 8.2% Meat, Fish & Eggs – 7.9% Ready Meals & Side Dishes – 7.5% 👉With consumers increasingly prioritizing health, transparency and sustainability in their snacking choices, how is your brand evolving to align with these shifting expectations?

🌱Sustainability covers a wide range of product and process attributes, including sourcing, ingredients, packaging, human and animal welfare, ecology and food waste reduction. Consumers’ expectations for sustainable solutions are higher than ever, with 75% expecting companies to invest in sustainability, according to Innova Market Insights. ♻️ A Generational Perspective on Sustainability Different generations define and prioritize sustainability based on their own perspectives. When it comes to environmental concerns: 🌍 35% of Baby Boomers are most concerned about the planet’s health 🌿 34% of Generation X and Millennials share similar concerns 🌱 33% of Generation Z is also actively engaged in sustainability issues One of the top actions taken by consumers worldwide to adopt more eco-friendly habits is reducing food waste, with 43% actively working towards minimizing their food footprint in the past years. 🌎 Sustainability Labels on the Rise Environmental certifications are gaining traction, helping brands demonstrate their commitment to eco-conscious practices. Certifications such as: 🔹 Plastic Free Trust Mark  🔹 Metal Recycles Forever™  🔹 FSC-certified packaging These labels are becoming increasingly visible on packaging and play a crucial role in building consumer trust and transparency. According to Innova Market Insights, there has been an average annual growth of 15% in food and beverage launches with ethical and environmental claims. 📊 Sustainability in Key Market Segments The demand for ethically and sustainably produced food and beverages continues to rise across various market segments. Brands are responding by introducing eco-friendly initiatives across categories such as: 🥫 Ready meals and side dishes 🍫 Confectionery 🥤 Beverages 🥖 Bakery products Sustainability is no longer an option—it’s an expectation. As we move forward, certifications, upcycling initiatives and eco-friendly packaging will be key strategies for brands looking to meet evolving consumer expectations and drive a more sustainable future. 💬 What’s the next big sustainability challenge the food industry should address? Share your thoughts below!

🔍 “What’s in my food? Where does it come from?” These are the questions consumers are increasingly asking. With a rising emphasis on transparency, natural ingredients and sustainability, clean label products have become a central priority for the food industry. What does Clean Label mean? Clean labeling provides consumers with clear information about: ✅ Ingredients – free from artificial additives and preservatives 🌍 Origin – traceability and sourcing transparency 🧑🤝🧑 Ethical factors – fair trade and responsible sourcing ♻️ Ecological factors – sustainable production and environmental impact 📈 Clean Label: A Growing Global Trend The clean label movement has expanded beyond ingredient transparency to include ethical and environmental considerations. Consumers are increasingly favoring natural, minimally processed foods over highly processed alternatives with artificial additives. According to Innova Market Insights, nearly 1 in 3 new products globally carry clean label claims. Europe leads the movement, followed by North America and Asia, showcasing the worldwide demand for transparency in food. 🏷️ Clean Label Beyond Ingredients Consumers are placing greater emphasis on how products are produced, not just their ingredients. Research from Innova Market Insights reveals that over 60% of consumers believe brands should provide more transparency about the technologies involved in their production processes. 🥫 Top Market Categories for Clean Label Products: Baby and Toddler Foods: Leading the trend, with 70.6% of new launches featuring clean label claims. Bakery Products: Representing 13% of clean label launches, this category is at the forefront of transparency. Sauces and Seasonings: Reflecting consumer demand for cleaner, more natural condiments. 📜 What to Look for on Clean Labels Clean label claims like “free from artificial colors” or “no added preservatives” indicate the absence of specific ingredients or processes. These labels make it easier for consumers to make informed choices without analyzing long ingredient lists. To maintain trust, brands must follow strict regulations: “Free from” Claims: Must meet legal thresholds (e.g., “sugar-free”). Additive Disclosure: Additives must be listed, though processing aids may not require labeling. Allergen Declaration: Clearly required for all products, regardless of clean label claims. 🚀 The Future of Clean Label at Anuga 2025 As consumer demand for transparency and sustainability continues to rise, clean labeling will remain a powerful tool to build trust and loyalty. Brands that prioritize clear communication, ethical sourcing and natural ingredients will stand out in a competitive marketplace. 🔎 What clean label claims do you prioritize when choosing food and beverage products? Share your thoughts below!

🌱 At Anuga, we’re not just following trends, we are shaping the future of food. One of the most exciting game-changers in the plant-based industry? Planted: the startup redefining clean-label, high-protein alternatives that don’t just mimic meat but set a new standard for taste, texture and sustainability. 🎙️ Whether it’s roasts, steak, sausage or kebab – a quick look at Planted’s online shop is enough to impress. The Swiss start-up offers such a diverse range of plant-based products that there’s truly something for everyone. We had the chance to speak with Planted’s co-founder, Pascal Bieri, about how they are pushing the boundaries of plant-based innovation. Their approach? Science-backed, fiber-rich and free from additives—because the future of food should be as natural as it is delicious. 🚀 How will the next generation of plant-based proteins evolve? 🌍 Do clean-label meat alternatives have what it takes to succeed on a global scale? 🤝 Join us at Anuga 2025 to explore, taste and discuss what’s next in the world of food innovation! Let’s shape the future of food together. What’s your take on the plant-based revolution? 👉Drop your thoughts in the comments!

🌍 Anuga Reborn: Cologne Becomes the Permanent Home of the World’s Leading Food Trade Fair (1949–1954) After the challenges of war and hunger, the political oppression in Germany between 1933-1945 and the almost complete destruction of the Cologne exhibition site, the establishment of the Federal Republic of Germany and the stability brought by the Deutsche Mark in 1949 paved the way for the rebirth of Anuga. 📅 The Milestones 1949: Industry leaders gathered under the leadership of the newly formed Hauptverband des Deutschen Lebensmitteleinzelhandels (HDLE) to reimagine Anuga as a biannual exhibition showcasing top-tier manufacturers. 1951: The first post-war Anuga opened in Cologne’s newly rebuilt trade fair halls, attracting over 1,200 exhibitorsfrom 30 countries and welcoming 250,000 visitors. This event marked Anuga’s transformation into an international platform for innovation and trade. 1953: The second Cologne Anuga was even bigger and brighter, with participation from 38 countries and the debut of key players like Edeka and Rewe. ✨ Global Reach & Innovation From Dutch and Italian pavilions to U.S. packaging showcases, Anuga 1951–1953 expanded horizons and fostered collaboration across continents. Highlights included the “glass kitchen” from the German fish industry and the debut of sweet treats, laying the foundation for today’s ISM (International Sweets and Biscuits Fair). 🍽️ Trendsetters of the Time Post-war Germany’s craving for caloric indulgence fueled the popularity of processed cheese and condensed milk. Brands like Velveta, Milkana, and Bärenmarke showcased these long-lasting, versatile products at Anuga, driving consumption trends of the 1950s. 💡 What lessons from Anuga's journey inspire you most? Share your thoughts below!

🎭 Karneval: A German Celebration of Joy and Tradition As the colorful season of Karneval unfolds across Germany, it’s not just about vibrant costumes, joyous parades and laughter- it’s also time for traditional foods that have been part of the festivities for centuries. Often referred to as the “fifth season“, Karneval dates back to medieval times, where it marked a period of indulgence before Lent. Today, it’s a celebration of freedom, creativity and community, filling the streets with music, laughter and delicious food. 🍩 The Berliner: A Sweet Tradition One of the most iconic treats during Karneval is the Berliner, a soft, pillowy doughnut filled with jam or cream and dusted with powdered sugar. It is known by different names in various regions (Pfannkuchen in Berlin, Krapfen in Bavaria). The Berliner has its roots in 16th-century Germany, where fried dough was a popular carnival indulgence. Its simplicity, versatility and nostalgic charm make it a staple during Karneval festivities. For those looking to create their own festive treats at home, the RUF Baking Company offers high-quality baking essentials, including their renowned baking powders, which are ideal for ensuring perfect, airy dough for Berliners and other traditional pastries. 🥖 The Importance of Karneval for the F&B Industry Karneval is not just a cultural event—it’s a key opportunity for the food and beverage industry to connect with consumers and showcase traditional and innovative products. Local bakeries often craft limited edition flavors and variations, like chocolate-filled Berliners or vegan options. Embracing such traditions strengthens the connection between brands and consumers, while highlighting the importance of culinary heritage. 🎉 What’s your favorite Karneval treat? How does your brand or bakery honor this festive season?

🌿 Health and wellness continue to be top priorities for consumers striving for a balanced and active lifestyle. The increasing awareness of the connection between physical, mental, and emotional well-being has fueled interest in superfoods—nutrient-rich foods known for their exceptional health benefits. Packed with vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, protein and fiber, superfoods contribute to: ✅ Strengthen the immune system ✅ Support digestion and gut health ✅ Reduce fatigue, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels 🚀 A Growing Market with Immense Potential The global superfood market is projected to exceed USD 276 billion by 2033, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.66% from 2023 to 2033. This remarkable growth reflects the increasing awareness of the role superfoods play in supporting overall health and reducing the risk of severe diseases. 📈 Market Insights: The Rise of Superfoods According to Innova Market Insights (2017-2022), food and beverage launches with superfood claims have seen an average annual growth of 4%. Among the most popular superfood ingredients globally are: 🥇 Garlic (24.9%) 🥈 Cocoa butter (17.3%) 🥉 Black pepper (8.7%) However, a rising star in the superfood category is hemp extract, which has grown at an impressive annual rate of 89.9%, making it one of the fastest-growing superfood ingredients worldwide. 🍽️ Superfoods Across Market Categories Superfoods are increasingly being incorporated into various food and beverage categories, with the highest market shares in: • Bakery products – 13.4% • Sauces and condiments – 9.8% • Ready meals and side dishes – 8.4% • Snacks – 8.4% • Confectionery – 7.7% With consumers seeking functional and natural food options, ancient grains are also gaining traction due to their rich nutritional profile, offering proteins, omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants linked to numerous health benefits. 📍Join us at Anuga, the world’s leading food and beverage trade fair, to explore the latest superfood trends and discover how these powerhouse ingredients can enhance your product offerings.

🚀 Quick Commerce (Q-Commerce) is revolutionizing the way consumers shop, demanding agile and innovative approaches to sales. To stay ahead in this fast-paced market, here are key strategies for thriving in Q-Commerce: 💸 Dynamic Pricing for Competitive Advantage Flexible pricing strategies are essential in Q-Commerce to respond swiftly to market changes and attract new customers. Sales teams can: test dynamic pricing strategies to optimize revenue. run targeted promotions to attract diverse audiences. leverage price variations between online and offline channels to maximize value perception. 🚚 Efficient Logistics and Real-Time Availability Efficient logistics are essential for Q-commerce success. Sales professionals should collaborate closely with delivery services and logistics partners to: optimize supply chains for faster fulfillment. streamline deliveries to micro-fulfillment centers for better proximity. monitor real-time inventory to avoid stock shortages and ensure customer satisfaction. 📱 Digital Branding in a Competitive Environment In Q-Commerce, where brands are just a click away from competitors, digital visibility is key. Enhance digital presence with: online marketing campaigns tailored to Q-Commerce platforms for targeted outreach. engaging content on social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok to captivate younger audiences. influencer collaborations showcasing your products in relatable, everyday contexts to build trust and authenticity. 🚀 In Q-commerce, success lies in the ability to adapt quickly, connect digitally and deliver efficiently. Let’s shape the future of retail, one click at a time! How are you adapting your strategies for Q-Commerce? Let’s share insights below!