Weekly Roundup – Week of 10.28.24

November 1, 2024

Your weekly dose of food and beverage industry news – all curated by our team of strategists and food enthusiasts:

New Dietary Guidelines Could Recategorize Plant-Based Foods

Scientists advising on new U.S. dietary guidelines recommend reducing red meat and increasing plant-based foods. This shift would reclassify beans, peas, and lentils as protein sources, prioritizing them over meat, poultry, and eggs to mitigate cardiovascular risks associated with red meat consumption. The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) has raised concerns and argues that such changes could lead to nutritional gaps. With a similar move in the 1970s favoring chicken, these recommendations could signal a major dietary change. Read Story

Tech-Powered Supermarkets: Amazon and Walmart Redefine Retail

Amazon and Walmart are intensifying their competition by leveraging AI, automation, and data-driven strategies to enhance both online and in-store grocery shopping. These tech investments are transforming retail, from Walmart’s remodeled stores and improved distribution to Amazon’s cashier-less Dash Carts. Both retailers are expanding private labels, adding delivery options, and integrating advertising into digital platforms. Their goal is to streamline the shopping experience, blending convenience with cost savings as they compete to lead the tech-driven retail market. Learn More

How Restaurants Can Boost Operational Efficiency With API-First Innovation

The restaurant technology landscape is at a crossroads, with enterprises facing an ongoing struggle between advancing customer experiences and managing the weight of technical debt. Many restaurants find that nearly 40% of their IT budget is tied up in maintaining outdated systems—like aging hardware and manual data processes—making it difficult to afford the innovations needed to stay competitive. An article by Restaurant Dive explores the concept of API-first innovation, a strategic approach that helps restaurants gradually reduce tech debt while enabling agile growth and technology integration. Read Article

Sugar-Reduction Movement: Why Food Manufacturers & Restaurants Should Prepare

Amid rising health awareness, Americans are increasingly seeking to reduce sugar intake. With refined sugars linked to health concerns, many are opting for natural alternatives like raw honey and monk fruit, driven by a desire for balanced blood sugar and overall wellness. This trend challenges restaurants and manufacturers to adapt by offering low-sugar options, ultimately enhancing consumer satisfaction and potentially boosting profits. “Overall, experts feel that a focus on sugar reduction could benefit most food businesses.” Read More

Catering to a New Generation of Foodies: An Iconic Brand’s Journey to Stay Relevant

Del Monte Foods, a 138-year-old company known for its canned fruits and vegetables, is innovating to appeal to younger generations. They’re launching products with bold flavors like Mexican Street Corn and Southern Style Green Beans. The company is also investing in trendier offerings like boba tea. While their classic products remain popular with older generations, Del Monte is focused on capturing the preferences of Gen Z and millennials to ensure long-term growth. By staying attuned to food trends and consumer preferences, Del Monte aims to maintain its relevance in a changing market. Read Now

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