Best of the West (ExpoWest)

The Natural Products Expo was buzzing this past week! Over 60,000 attendees and 2,700 exhibitors came together for three days to connect on all things natural & organic at the Anaheim Convention Center.

The biggest Health & Wellness trend on display among food, snacks, condiments & beverages was the use of functional benefits- everything from mushrooms that support brain health, pea-proteins that strengthen immunity, ashwagandha to reduce stress and high-fiber dates used as a BFY sweetener. The category is meeting the needs of today's health-conscious consumers looking for close-to-the-source ingredients that offer up both health and happiness in one bite.

Another highlight, built into the DNA of plant-based ethics is the category's mission-based commerce. From sourcing responsibly, minimizing waste reduction, diversifying ownerships and addressing social and environmental issues. It's evident that these brands are focused on reducing negative impacts on people, animals and the planet.

Lastly, convenience, on-the-go and single-serve products dominated the show. Among these snack brands - which attributed to roughly 70% of food & beverages featured - were dressed in bright, bold colors to capture attention at shelf, celebrate the snacking craze and give something for everybody to look forward to - a nod of optimism after the tumultuous previous years.

Overall, ExpoWest and ExpoEast were a great success! The natural & organic industry is making serious moves to cement its dominance in the marketplace.

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