Food News

Data Overload Challenges Foodservice Leaders (Image Credits: Pixabay) Foodservice marketers grapple with vast data streams yet achieve breakthroughs by honing operator-specific insights that empower sales teams. Data Overload Challenges Foodservice Leaders The foodservice sector generates immense data from billing, logistics, and trade processes, yet this abundance often paralyzes decision-making. Marketers face a B2B2B landscape where manufacturers supply distributors who serve operators, complicating the path to relevant intelligence. Fast-moving signals offer timely context but lack verification, while confirmed data arrives too late for agile execution.[1] Silos across CRM, ERP, and trade promotion systems exacerbate debates over accuracy, diverting focus from growth … Read more

The ‘Tarp of Shame’ and Its Lessons (Image Credits: Flickr) Idle robots shrouded in tarps have emerged as a grim emblem for food manufacturers haunted by stranded automation investments. The ‘Tarp of Shame’ and Its Lessons Nick Fulop, Sales Director at Formic, shared a striking example during a recent webinar hosted by The Food Institute: a Connecticut client relegated trailers full of obsolete robotic equipment to storage.[1] These failures stem from rigid systems that fail to adapt to shifting demands. Food processors face relentless pressures, including labor shortages and surging SKU complexity. Traditional automation often demands massive upfront overhauls, locking … Read more

Spices as Inflation’s Frontline Sentinel (Image Credits: Unsplash) Prices for key spices have climbed sharply in recent months, emerging as a leading indicator of broader pressures building in the U.S. food supply chain. Spices as Inflation’s Frontline Sentinel Spices often signal upcoming food price hikes before they ripple through staples like bread or meat. These pantry essentials, largely imported from distant regions, react swiftly to global disruptions. Their low volume and high value make fluctuations visible early. Analysts note that spice costs provide a preview of trends affecting everyday groceries.[1][2] Recent data underscores this role. Key spices rose roughly 43 … Read more

Kitchri’s Roots in South Asian Tradition (Image Credits: Unsplash) Winter’s chill has home cooks embracing coconut kitchri, a velvety lentil and rice porridge that delivers warmth and satisfaction in every spoonful.[1][2] Kitchri’s Roots in South Asian Tradition Lentils and rice have long formed the backbone of kitchri, a savory porridge cherished across South Asia for its simplicity and versatility. Cooks have adapted the dish endlessly over generations, incorporating local spices and ingredients to suit tastes and seasons.[2] This latest version draws inspiration from kuku paka, an East African curry simmered in coconut milk, which infuses the porridge with aromatic depth. … Read more

Tracing a Career Rooted in Leadership (Image Credits: Pixabay) San Diego – Franchise professionals anticipate valuable insights from Gong cha Americas Director of Direct Franchising and Operations Chris Noffze at the upcoming Restaurant Franchising & Innovation Summit.[1][2] Tracing a Career Rooted in Leadership Chris Noffze began his professional journey in politics, where he honed skills in listening and building connections to achieve results.[1] He later entered the quick-service restaurant sector through Domino’s Pizza leadership development program. There, he absorbed a core principle: “if you don’t make it, take it, or bake it, you support someone who does.”[1] This mindset emphasized … Read more

Preservatives Claim Sparks First Suit (Image Credits: Pixabay) Costco Wholesale’s signature rotisserie chicken, long a go-to meal for millions, now confronts allegations of deceptive marketing and safety lapses in two newly filed class-action lawsuits.[1][2] Preservatives Claim Sparks First Suit Two California consumers launched the initial challenge on January 22, 2026, in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of California. They argued that Costco misrepresented its Kirkland Signature Seasoned Rotisserie Chicken as free of preservatives, despite the inclusion of sodium phosphate and carrageenan in the ingredients list.[3][1] The plaintiffs contended these additives function to retain moisture, stabilize texture, and … Read more

Flavor Without the Knife Work (Image Credits: Unsplash) Busy evenings call for meals that deliver bold flavors without the hassle of mandatory prep work. Flavor Without the Knife Work Professional kitchens often prioritize efficiency, and skipping onions proves that depth in taste comes from clever swaps rather than staples.[1] Senior Chef-Instructor Stephen Chavez from the Institute of Culinary Education in Los Angeles shared insights on substitutes that maintain umami and brightness. Roasted peppers like piquillo offer sweetness, while herbs such as thyme, tarragon, and rosemary add aroma. Lemon zest acts as a versatile brightener, tomato paste builds base notes, and … Read more

Landmark Gathering Draws Unprecedented Participation (Image Credits: Pixabay) New York City – Producers of the renowned Tuscan wine gathered in record numbers to reinforce commercial bonds with the United States, a vital export market facing trade uncertainties.[1] Landmark Gathering Draws Unprecedented Participation The Consortium for the Protection of Brunello di Montalcino organized Benvenuto Brunello 2026 on February 24 at 583 Park Avenue in Manhattan. Forty-eight producers showcased Brunello and Rosso di Montalcino PDO wines during a B2B tasting attended by American trade professionals and specialized press. The event highlighted recent vintages, including Brunello 2021, Brunello Riserva 2020, and Rosso di … Read more

New Role Signals Bold Tech Overhaul (Image Credits: Unsplash) Austin, Minn. – Hormel Foods Corporation announced the appointment of Donald Monk as its inaugural chief technology officer, effective March 23.[1] New Role Signals Bold Tech Overhaul The creation of this senior position marked a pivotal step for the Fortune 500 company. Hormel Foods positioned Monk as its top technology executive to drive enterprise-wide change. Company President John Ghingo highlighted the strategic importance of the hire. He praised Monk’s ability to transform large organizations.[2] This move aligned with Hormel’s ongoing efforts to modernize its platforms. The company sought to enhance digital … Read more

Shareable Snacks Capture Game-Day Crowds (Image Credits: Unsplash) Processors in the frozen food industry crafted compact appetizers and sides that mimic restaurant flair, drawing in shoppers seeking bold tastes and easy preparation. Shareable Snacks Capture Game-Day Crowds Sales of takeout-style frozen foods hit $14.3 billion annually, propelled by formats such as chicken bites, dumplings, and international twists.[1][2] These options surged in popularity during social events like football season, where potato skins jumped 42% in February sales.[2] Brands rolled out varieties including Buffalo-style chicken roll-ups, Mexican street corn triangles, and spicy taquitos in flavors like birria beef and pollo asado. Dumplings … Read more