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Matcha. CBD. Keto. Plant-based Meat. Every ExpoWest has its trends, so in advance of this years chaos, I challenged a few industry friends to share their predictions for this year's show beyond the obvious fact we'll all get sick from sampling too much. Here's what they had to say: ?? Brands Jumping Aisles – Amrit Richmond Category lines are blurring and brands aren’t staying in their "lanes." Banza expanded from chickpea pasta to frozen pizza. GoodPop sells popsicles & kids’ sparkling water. BelliWelli has wellness powders and bars. This shift isn’t just about chasing trends—it’s about redefining what a brand can be. Expect more companies to hop aisles as they build portfolios that serve consumers across multiple occasions. ???♀? Protein in Everything – Nate Rosen Protein is the star of the show, expanding well beyond bars, powders, and shakes. Whether it’s casual consumers upping their intake or fitness enthusiasts chasing macros, brands are adding protein to nearly everything. Expect more whey-based products for taste and texture, while plant-based options lean into blended proteins (pea, hemp, brown rice) rather than single sources. ?? The Great Cocoa Swap – Chloe Gordon Chocolate’s in trouble. Supply chain disruptions—poor harvests, extreme weather, aging trees—are sending prices soaring. Meanwhile, ethical concerns like child labor and deforestation are pushing brands toward alternatives: bean-free chocolate, stricter traceability, and cocoa-free flavor innovations. I predict new brands will reimagine chocolate-inspired indulgence without cocoa at all. ?? Regulatory Navigation & Preparation – Rifle Hughes You won’t see it in booth promotions, but expect major behind-the-scenes conversations on trade, regulations, and industry volatility under a new administration. What’s shifting for ingredients, formulations, labor, supply chains, and claims? It’s still unfolding—but Expo West is where industry leaders will be swapping insights. ?????? Culture, Community & Conscious Innovation – Anna Ison?? The future of food isn’t just functional—it’s flavorful, cultural, and deeply intentional. Brands are doubling down on global influences, infusing bold international flavors into everyday staples. At the same time, women’s health is finally getting the spotlight it deserves. From menopause support to hormonal balance, we’re seeing a surge of products addressing women’s needs at every stage of life. This movement isn’t just about what we eat—it’s about who we’re making space for in the industry. My 2 cents: We'll see the Siete Family Foods effect - their sale and success will further inspire brands to lean into cultural narratives and authentic stories to stand out. Lookout for Loisa's rebrand, COYOTAS, Ayéya, Maazah & Peepal People as just a few show stoppers. SO, let’s see which predictions come true. Drop your hot takes in the comments as well and see you on the show floor ??