The 2024 Summer Fancy Food Show, held from June 23-25 at the Javits Center in New York City, provided a platform for showcasing the latest and most exciting trends in the specialty food industry. This year’s event highlighted a fascinating array of products that cater to evolving consumer preferences. Softengine, as a product member of the Specialty Food Association, enjoys reporting on the most recent trends spotted at the SFA Winter and Summer shows! From meeting with our customers exhibiting at the shows to spotting and researching the most up-to-date trends innovating the Food and Beverage Industry, we hope you enjoy our team’s 2024 SFA Summer Fancy Food Show Trends Report!

For more food and beverage related content, articles, and blogs, head over to our Food and Beverage Insights Center on our website for all things F&B, ERP, and more! 

Freeze-Dried Candy: A Sweet Revolution

Freeze-dried candy is gaining significant traction for its unique texture and intense flavor. This process involves freezing the candy and then removing the moisture under a vacuum, resulting in a crunchy and flavorful treat. Brands showcased a variety of freeze-dried candies, from traditional sweets like marshmallows and gummy bears to innovative creations featuring fruits and even chocolate. This method not only preserves the original flavor but also extends shelf life, making it a convenient snack option for both kids and adults​. The freeze-dried trend is also being propelled forward by social media platforms such as TikTok, where users are buying various types of freeze-dried candies and reviewing them.

Functional Foods and Beverages: Beyond Nutrition

Functional foods and beverages were a major highlight, as they were at last year’s shows as well, reflecting the growing and consistent consumer interest in health and wellness. These products are designed to offer additional health benefits beyond basic nutrition. Exhibitors showcased a range of items fortified with vitamins, minerals, probiotics, protein and more. For example, snacks enriched with protein and fiber, beverages infused with stress-relieving herbs, and even chocolates containing prebiotics were on display. The focus is on products that support overall well-being, including immune health, mental clarity, and digestive health​.

International Flavors: A Global Culinary Journey

The Summer Fancy Food Show was a melting pot of international flavors, bringing a world of culinary diversity to attendees. From spicy Asian condiments, Italian food galore, to rich Mediterranean spreads, the event highlighted the increasing demand for authentic global cuisine. This trend reflects consumers’ desire to explore and experience diverse culinary traditions from the comfort of their own kitchens​​. As more and more consumers are choosing to cook meals at home, the trend of wanting to incorporate global flavors is only increasing to provide both a fantastic meal and a culinary experience from the comfort of home.

Hot Sauces: Turning Up the Heat

Hot sauces continued to captivate taste buds with a variety of new and exciting options. The show featured an array of hot sauces with unique flavor profiles, ranging from the smoky depth of chipotle to the fiery punch of ghost pepper. Many brands are experimenting with unusual ingredients like tropical fruits, aromatic spices, and even fermented elements to create distinctive sauces. This trend caters to the growing number of spice enthusiasts looking to add a kick to their meals​​.

Convenience All Around: Easy and Accessible

Convenience remains a key driver in the food industry, with consumers seeking quick and easy meal solutions. The show featured a wide range of convenient products, from ready-to-eat meals and grab-and-go snacks to pre-portioned meal kits. Innovations in packaging, such as microwaveable pouches and resealable containers, enhance the convenience factor. These products are designed to fit into busy lifestyles without sacrificing quality or nutrition, providing practical solutions for meals and snacks on the go.

Non-Alcoholic Beverages: Sober Sophistication

The trend towards non-alcoholic beverages continues to grow, reflecting the increasing interest in healthier lifestyle choices. The 2024 Summer Fancy Food Show showcased a variety of non-alcoholic options, including craft sodas, mocktails, and alcohol-free spirits. These beverages offer complex flavors and sophisticated profiles, providing a viable alternative for those who choose to avoid alcohol but still want to enjoy a social drink. Brands are focusing on natural ingredients and unique flavor combinations to create beverages that stand out in the market​​.

Fermented Foods: Flavor and Health Combined

Fermented foods were prominently featured, celebrated for their distinctive flavors and health benefits. Products like kimchi, kombucha, and miso continue to gain popularity due to their probiotic content, which supports gut health. This year, new innovations included kombucha-infused dressings and kimchi-flavored snacks, showcasing the versatility of fermented ingredients. These products appeal to health-conscious consumers looking for functional foods that also deliver on taste​.

Health-Centric Products: Nutritious and Delicious

Health-centric products that do not compromise on taste were a major focus at the show. Brands are increasingly developing items that cater to specific dietary needs, such as gluten-free, keto-friendly, and allergen-free products. Innovations in this category include snacks fortified with superfoods, low-sugar desserts, and beverages with added vitamins and minerals. The emphasis is on creating delicious products that support a healthy lifestyle, making it easier for consumers to make nutritious choices without feeling deprived.

2024 SFA Summer Fancy Food Show Trends Report

The 2024 Summer Fancy Food Show highlighted the vibrant and innovative nature of the specialty food industry. These trends not only reflect changing consumer preferences but also showcase the creativity and dedication of brands in meeting these demands. Whether you’re a food enthusiast, a health-conscious consumer, or an industry professional, these trends offer a glimpse into the exciting future of food and beverage.

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