Weekly Roundup – Week of 9.26.2022

September 30, 2022

This week’s roundup highlights newsworthy food and beverage stories of the week curated by our team of strategists and food enthusiasts:

FDA Redefines What’s Healthy

For the past six years, the FDA has been working on new guidelines to define what ‘healthy’ means and how this label claim applies to various types of food products. The FDA examined the baseline nutrient density of each and determined that in order for a food/product to be labeled as ‘healthy’, it “needs to have the equivalent of a serving of fruits, vegetables, grains, dairy or protein.” The new Dietary Guidelines for Americans state that “raw, whole fruits and vegetables automatically can bear the claim.” The FDA has developed a scale for different kinds of prepared products “that has a nutrient requirement and percentage limits for the recommended daily intakes of added sugars, sodium, and saturated fats.” These new guidelines take the previous ambiguous definition and provide consumers with a clear and accurate way to identify foods that are in fact healthy. Get the Full Details Here.

New Livestreaming Videos For Digital-Savvy Shoppers

Walmart has partnered with video e-commerce company Firework to launch a new livestream video platform aptly named, Walmart Connect. This omnichannel retail platform brings new shoppable, social media-style experiences to consumers, and it allows brands to connect with their consumers and keep them engaged during the live event. Consumers are able to learn about products, ask questions, make comments and shop all at the same time. Jason Holland, chief business officer at Firework told The Food Institute, “Walmart kicked off the partnership with livestream shopping events featuring J&J and P&G, but the use cases go far beyond beauty products.” Food manufacturers can host mini ‘food show’ type sessions introducing new products, preparing recipes, and answering questions about ingredients, sustainability, and product usage. Learn More.

Are C-stores Shifting Priorities Away from Convenience?

According to a new study from Intouch Insight, based on multiple surveys of thousands of consumers, C-stores must also prioritize quality, speed, and accuracy to compete with grocery and quick-service outlets. The study indicates that the “top reasons consumers don’t purchase food from c-stores are because they prefer options at fast food restaurants, c-store food is too expensive, or they prefer to remain in their vehicle.” Cameron Watt, president & CEO of Intouch Insight added that c-store operators should look for ways to differentiate and pay attention to local trends and what competitors are doing – not just other convenience stores, but coffee shops and other fast-food venues, too. Read Article.

Chipotle Tests New Autonomous Kitchen Assistant

As many retailers and restaurants look to robotics and technology to simplify operations, Chipotle Mexican Grill is following suit. The chain is testing an autonomous kitchen assistant called Chippy, made by Miso Robotics, for handling the menial task of making tortilla chips. This will save employees from the time-consuming, repetitive job of frying and seasoning chips. The test will occur next month in a California location and will determine if a nationwide rollout is warranted. Chipotle is exploring and testing additional technology platforms such as a new kitchen management system that can “predict demand for ingredients in order to improve freshness and minimize food waste” and location-based technology to enhance delivery orders. Read More.

Just Because We’re Foodies

Meet the new purple M&M! Purple is the latest spokescandy debuting in a 104-second video and appearing in the brand’s advertising campaigns. “There is so much about our new spokescandy that people can relate to and appreciate, including her willingness to embrace her true self. Our new character reminds us to celebrate what makes us unique,” Jane Hwang, global vice president at Mars Wrigley, stated. While the Purple M&M with a capital-P will appear in ads, unfortunately, the colors in the bag will be staying the same.

The Cheesecake Factory is adding some notable new menu items. A chain that is known for its lengthy menu and variety of options has crafted even more craveable foods for patrons to devour. From appetizers and pasta to a new indulgent dessert, patrons can enjoy Ahi Poke Nachos, Asparagus Fries, Spicy Rigatoni Vodka, Bacon and Avocado Benedict, and Classic Basque Cheesecake to name a few.

Lastly, two brands are having a little ghoulish fun in time for Halloween. Baskin-Robbins is introducing its new Flavor of the Month for October – Spicy ‘n Spooky ice cream. The bold flavor profile features a swirl of white chocolate ghost pepper-flavored ice cream, blended with a dark chocolate ice cream flecked with spicy blood orange flakes. And Heinz is bringing back its iconic Tomato Blood Ketchup Bottles. This limited-edition packaging will be available through retailers throughout entire the month of October.

Want more? Stop back each week for the latest industry-related news.