According to Innova Market Insights data, nearly one out of three global consumers is actively limiting salt/sodium in their diet. Responding to this demand, brands are increasingly labeling products with no/reduced sodium claims on packaging. Between October 2023 and September 2024, Baby & Toddler, Sauces & Seasonings and Snacks were the top categories with these claims.

According to data from Innova Market Insights, food and beverage launches featuring spice and seed or smoked and roasted flavors grew by 7% from October 2019 to September 2024. Of these launches, 32% were in the Sauces and Seasonings category. There was also a 10% increase in savory influences within the Meat Substitutes sector, presenting new opportunities for innovation.

Consumers are always seeking new flavors to excite their taste buds. According to data from Innova Market Insights, a variety of flavors are gaining ground for food and beverage NPD, including cultural influences like Korean cuisine, ingredients like cabbage and seafood options like prawns.

Innova Market Insights data indicates a 6% average annual growth in Halloween food & beverage product launches from July 2019 to June 2024. Out of these launches, 57% were in the Confectionery category, but there is a fast increase in Halloween-themed launches for the Cereal and Bakery categories.

Innova Market Insights data indicates a 16% year-over-year growth in food and beverage with mineral/vitamin fortification between July 2022 – June 2023 and July 2023 – June 2024. The top categories with mineral/vitamin fortified were Dairy, Soft Drinks and Baby & Toddlers. Vitamin B12, C and A were the top minerals/vitamins used in these launches.

Innova Market Insights data indicates a 6% growth in alternative protein use for global food and beverage launches from July 2019 to June 2024. Bakery led with 21% of new products, while Dairy, Desserts, and Ice Cream had the fastest increase in alternative protein use. Cashew and Amaranth proteins experienced the highest growth in NPD with alternative proteins.

Innova Market Insights data shows a 5% increase in food & beverage launches featuring ethical claims from July 2019 to June 2024. The bakery category led these launches, accounting for 13% of NPD, while meat substitutes saw the most significant growth, with a 14% increase over five years. Ethical environmental claims also experienced a 14% growth during this period.

Innova Market Insights data indicates that indulgent food and beverage with health claims were increasing globally, featuring a 4% average annual growth rate between July 2019 to June 2024. The top indulgent categories were Snacks (24%), Soft Drinks (18%) and Confectionery (17%). No additives/preservatives and Gluten-free were the top health positionings. Meanwhile, Prebiotic and Immune health claims showed the fastest growth during the same period.

Innova Market Insights data shows a rapid rise in food & beverage launches featuring nostalgic claims, with a 29% increase from July 2019 to June 2024. While these claims were most frequently applied to Alcoholic Beverages, particularly beer, the past year has seen a significant surge in their use for Soft Drinks. Over five years, this category experienced a 136% growth, with iced tea leading the way in this trend.