Taste remains a key driver in consumer food purchases. According to the 2018 IFIC "Food and Health Survey," taste was rated the No. 1 factor, with 81 percent of consumers stating taste impacts their decisions. Consumers still seek nostalgic, familiar flavors, but also flavors that appeal to their adventurous side.
Many sustainability experts and consumers alike agree that we cannot sustain a society in which we continually make purchases and throw things away. This includes consumables that we use on a daily basis.
When it comes to pizza, consumers aren't lukewarm: Those who like it are committed to their favorite convenient meal. According to Mintel's latest U.S. pizza market report, more than one-third of consumers who purchase frozen pizza from their local grocery store do so two or three times a month or more.
New and different flavors, portions and sizes styled for families on the go, and a mix of healthier ingredients including more protein are front and center for manufacturers of frozen breakfast products like pancakes, waffles and French toast.
In 2015, we launched the "Best New Snack & Bakery Products" contest to honor outstanding new snack and bakery products. After voting for the 2017 contest concluded in mid-December, TERRA Plantain chips and PowerBar Plant Protein bars emerged as clear victors.