Natural Products Expo West 2025 Review: Top 5 Food & Beverages Trends Spotted
Natural Products Expo West 2025 brought together some of the most innovative brands in food and beverage, showcasing the latest trends in the industry.
From functional ingredients to sustainability efforts, here’s what stood out on the show floor:
#1 – Fueling with Function: The Rise of Functional Beverages & Snacks
Consumers are looking for more than just great taste – they want products that support their wellness goals. Functional beverages and snacks infused with adaptogens, probiotics, and brain-boosting ingredients seemed to be in the spotlight. Each with their own unique function, benefits such as improved focus, gut health, and relaxation could be seen on many food and beverage labels.
#2 – Power-Up: Protein Packed Everything
Protein continues to reign supreme, but brands are getting creative with their sources. Whether it’s plant-based or dairy-derived, high protein options are everywhere – from snack bars to pasta and even coffee! No need to take supplements anymore when you can get protein from your favorite day to day food and beverage items.
#3 – Labels That Flex: Catering to All Diets
Consumers want choices, and brands are responding with more flexible labeling. We saw a surge in brands with both vegan and non-vegan options and more brands offering non-alcoholic choices to their regular alcohol-consuming customers. This allows them to cater to a wider audience without compromising the brand-trust they built and to appeal to different dietary preferences.
#4 – Sustainable & Smart: Eco-Friedly Innovations
Sustainability was a major focus, with brands showcasing innovative packaging, upcycled ingredients, and regenerative agricultural practices. Consumers are increasingly making choices based on a product’s environmental impact, and companies are stepping up to meet those expectations.
#5 – A World of Flavor: Global Inspirations
International flavors are making their way into everyday products, bringing bold and unique tasting experiences to the ever-curious consumer. From Southeast Asian inspired snacks to Latin American spice blends, brands are embracing global cuisines to excite adventurous palates.
As a leader in the freeze-dried industry, we were excited to exhibit at Natural Products Expo West and showcase our freeze-dried capabilities and snacks. We were able to attend the event as a fantastic opportunity to share our passion for clean-label and shelf stable snacks while learning from other leaders driving the future of food and beverage. From functional nutrition to sustainability, we’re excited to be a part of the movement shaping the way consumers snack.
At Chaucer Foods, we remain committed to delivering high quality, delicious freeze-dried snacks and ingredients that align with evolving trends and consumer demands. Stay tuned for what’s next!
Interested in exploring more industry trends or seeking expert insights on innovation? Reach out to our team at customer.services@chaucerfoods.com.
