Agrusa Inc.

Four key #trends will shape the food and beverage industry in 2025. Health and wellness remain paramount, with #consumers increasingly demanding clean labels and organic options, particularly among Gen Z. Premiumization is evolving beyond price to focus on quality #ingredients and meaningful experiences, with brands emphasizing clear communication of product benefits. #Global flavors are gaining prominence as Americans seek bold, authentic culinary experiences driven by globalization and social media. #Value considerations now extend beyond cost, with consumers looking for products and experiences that deliver emotional benefits and versatility, prompting retailers and #brands to adapt their strategies accordingly.

🇺🇸 As the year comes to a close, the teams at Agritalia, Agrilogistica S.r.l., and Agrusa Inc. extend their warmest wishes for a Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year to all our customers, partners, and friends 🎄 ✨ Together, we look forward to a successful 2025! 🇮🇹 Con l'arrivo delle festività, i team di Agritalia, Agrilogistica e Agrusa rivolgono i loro più calorosi auguri di Buon Natale e di un Felice Anno Nuovo a tutti i nostri clienti, partner e amici 🎄 ✨ Insieme, guardiamo con entusiasmo al 2025! #MerryChristmas #HappyNewYear #BuonNatale #FeliceAnnoNuovo #Agritalia #Agrilogistica #Agrusa #SeasonGreetings

Happy Thanksgiving!

#Charcuterie boards are evolving as a popular way to enjoy creative, healthier snacks, boosting #cracker sales. Initially, plain crackers were preferred to spotlight meats and cheeses, but consumer tastes are shifting toward diverse flavors. Industry leaders say today’s boards include jams, fruits, vegetables, and intense flavors. Crackers are now seen as versatile, enjoyed alone or with various toppings, catering to an interest in balanced, innovative #snacking that combines indulgence and health. #Sustainability also plays a role, with brands focusing on eco-friendly ingredients and packaging, reflecting broader trends in the snacking market.

Consumer #snacking is evolving beyond basic needs, emphasizing wellness and #emotional connection. Driven by increased meal skipping, consumers seek "permissible indulgence"—nutritious yet enjoyable snacks. Pleasure (39%), energy management (36%), and goal support (25%) are key drivers, with pleasure leading as #consumers seek emotional satisfaction. Women, a prime target for #functional foods, increasingly seek snacks addressing specific needs like sleep, inflammation, and hormonal support, highlighting the growing demand for targeted snack solutions.

Flavors are crucial for the success of healthy #beverages, as taste remains the primary factor influencing consumer purchases despite the growing demand for #functional drinks. While consumers seek better-for-you options with #health benefits, they often need to be more concerned about how these beverages will taste. Natural sweeteners, protein sources, and functional additives frequently introduce off-notes or aftertastes that can be off-putting. To address this challenge, beverage manufacturers must employ flavor masking, modulation techniques, and careful #ingredient selection and sensory testing. By balancing healthiness with #flavor appeal, companies can create beverages that meet #nutritional goals and taste preferences, ensuring #consumer satisfaction and market success.

In the ongoing competition for market share, #privatelabel products have made significant progress, now accounting for 26.9% of the U.S. market in recent months. As brands encounter new challenges, the quality difference between private labels and established brands has diminished, making store brands an appealing option for budget-conscious #consumers. Despite the increasing popularity of private labels, particularly during economic uncertainty, analysts suggest that brands still maintain advantages in premium segments through #innovation and reliability.

#Pizza continues to see rising demand in the U.S., driven by its affordability, customization options, and universal appeal. Consumers enjoy various styles, from #traditional toppings to healthier choices, making pizza a versatile meal. According to Technomic, the pizza #market experienced a 5.5% compound annual growth rate (CAGR) from 2021 to 2023, with continued growth expected. Companies like Rich Products are expanding their pizza offerings, while chains like Papa John’s focus on core pizza sales amidst changing consumer spending habits. Analysts emphasize the need for innovative crusts and toppings to maintain #consumer interest and meet diverse needs.

Chaga mushrooms, high in #antioxidants and plant compounds, are becoming increasingly popular due to their health benefits. The global market for these #mushrooms is projected to grow from $1.05 billion in 2024 to $2.1 billion by 2034. Traditionally used in Siberia and Asia to enhance immunity and treat conditions such as diabetes and high #cholesterol, Chaga mushrooms are now featured in products like Herbal Lodge and Birch Boys. Sales are predominantly concentrated in North America and East Asia, with powdered and organic forms being the most popular. Despite facing challenges such as high cost and potential side effects, the demand for Chaga mushrooms is expected to rise due to the growing health-conscious #consumer market.

A report from Nutiani, Fonterra's nutrition solutions brand, reveals that 65% of consumers plan to improve their #diets for better #health despite rising prices. The survey, which included 2,500 respondents from China, Japan, South Korea, the U.K., and the U.S., shows that 67% prioritize #wellness. Consumers increasingly seek scientifically proven "better-for-you" products, with 60% citing health concerns as a top issue, up from 55% in 2021. As health-oriented food becomes standard, #consumers are budgeting carefully, focusing on essential nutrition despite financial constraints.