Expo West 2024 is a wrap.
But just because it’s done and dusted doesn’t mean the fun’s going to stop any time soon. It’s the great thing about attending trade shows of this magnitude, getting a glimpse of what the leading innovators in the ingredient market and food industry have to offer.
We’re always looking for ways to expand our Bulk Ingredient Catalog and to see the innovative ways in which the ingredients we supply are being put to use. And this year there was no shortage of new discoveries and brands strutting their stuff…
2024: the year of brand personality
The food industry is the hub of so much more than sales and consumerism; it’s the center of personal journeys. Family dinners, neighborhood cookouts, sneaking lunch at your desk before a meeting – our lives are built around these events. So when a brand comes around that connects with us as people, sharing our values and interests on a personal level, they become more than a manufacturer and instead become an extension of your identity.
One of the simplest ways to communicate this shared journey is through the adoption of a visual language, a brand identity, that speaks to your customers and communicates your ethos with a single look.
This year, exhibitors did just that and wore their vibrant brand identities on their sleeves. Frankie’s Organic Snacks, Skinny Mixes, and Pasta Barilla all flew their brand colors high and made sure expo attendants couldn’t miss the vibrant “personality” that the visual displays simply hinted at.
“I was impressed by so many brands incorporating flour and vibrant neon colors/lights into their booths and designs. It’s a testament to the innovation and creativity within the industry, capturing attention and imagination in striking ways.” Francisco Schiariti
Getting a “clean” caffeine fix
CLEAN, much like Liquid Death before it, is a beverage that’s showing consumers a simpler, healthier way to stay hydrated.
Born out of founder Wes Hurt’s search for a drink that could battle fatigue without the often harsh side effects of coffee, CLEAN is an organic yerba mate drink that packs the same punch as other caffeine drinks without the punch to your gut health.
50% of the company’s net profits also go toward addiction recovery programs, helping build healthier communities beyond the sale of alternative caffeine drinks.
“Discovering numerous startups and companies crafting beverages from Yerba Mate left me deeply impressed. Many source this iconic herb from Argentina, a source of pride for me as an Argentinian. Despite deviations from our traditional consumption, exporting a product so deeply ingrained in our culture fills me with pride. And the taste? Simply amazing.” Franco Palmisano
Making nutrition fun right from the start
Once Upon a Farm is making nutritious meals a fun experience for young kids. Nutritious, convenient and (most importantly) delicious baby food products and children’s snacks that make meal time and snack time fun again. Just look at their Coconut Melts and Tractor Wheel biscuits to see what we mean.
Having Jennifer Garner’s stamp of approval doesn’t hurt either. The former Annie’s CEO has partnered with Once Upon a Farm to further strengthen and grow their shared vision of improved child nutrition.
“Once Upon a Farm doesn’t just offer a playful, creative, and vibrant booth; its products are genuinely remarkable. From the unmistakable flavors of the fruits and vegetables to their innovative new snacks, it’s a testament to their commitment to quality and innovation. Their presence at the expo doesn’t go unnoticed!” Josefina Barcellona
What if a company could do more than create outstanding products?
Equator Coffees was founded on a grassroots mentality, searching for a coffee that was roasted better, brewed better, and sourced better. And as a company that’s been fair trade certified since 1999, we think it’s safe to say that founders Helen Russell and Brooke McDonnell hit the mark early on.
But the sustainably sourced world-class coffee isn’t where Equator Coffees’ impact stops. The company’s Tiger Collective program partners with athletes, artists, activists, and musicians to advocate and promote the healthy lifestyle ideals that the company is built on.
Their Women in Coffee initiative shines a spotlight on the women farmers and manufacturers who are leading the way in agricultural and manufacturing technologies.
“Ecuador Coffees truly caught my attention with their innovative offering, the Super Espresso. Initially introduced in 2019 in 6 oz cans and temporarily discontinued in 2020, it’s back now in 11 oz cans with three delightful flavors: Vanilla, Espresso with Cream, and Triple Shot (black). And let me tell you, they are absolutely delicious!” Aalap Patel
Who says healthy can’t be tasty?
“Healthy snacks” – it’s a term that is often synonymous with bland or “I don’t know … it tastes … green.” But not anymore.
Companies like Harvest Snaps are creating healthy vegetable-based snacks that pack the same level of flavor punch as Flamin’s Hot Cheetos.
Harvest Snacks’ product list includes a variety of crispy, gluten-free, plant protein-rich snacks that range from classics like Lightly Salted Crisps to extreme taste busters like Wasabi Ranch or Mango Chili Lime Loops that’ll have you drooling in no time and coming back for more. The snacks are made from plant proteins such as green peas and black beans, making it one of the healthiest snacks on the market right now.
“When I stopped by Harvest Snaps’ booth and discovered their Crunchy Puffs, I was genuinely impressed by the variety of flavors they offer: from the sweet and tangy Honey Dijon to the indulgent Loaded Taco Taco seasoning plus cheddar cheese plus sour cream … OMG), and the creamy and spicy White Cheddar Jalapeno. What’s even better is that each one is packed with plant protein and fiber, with navy beans as the #1 ingredient. What a fantastic find!” Eran Mizrahi
A snack so good and packed with nutrition it’s almost criminal
“Delicious real fruit snacks with no added baddies!” We couldn’t have said it better than ourselves. As The Froot Thief slogan says, the company creates delicious fruit string snacks with 100% pulped apples, mangoes, and berries, with a dash of apple juice.
The brand has gone out of its way to make something wacky and fun for kids, and yet keeping the product itself simple and straightforward.
“These snacks from South Africa are awesome because they keep it real—no added bad stuff. And they are not just about tasty treats; they move 1 step towards a healthier future for kids everywhere.” Eran Mizrahi
Seeing teams build something Team work
Expo West isn’t just about bringing vendors and brands together, though. It’s about bringing teams together. For us, a fully remote bulk importer and wholesale supplier, trade shows give us an opportunity to collaborate with more than a Zoom-enclosed torso for once. And it’s always a blast.
Seeing how other teams promote their brands and immerse themselves in a greater goal is an inspiration that reminds us each time that we’re part of an amazing industry that truly touches lives.
“Expo West expo always surpasses expectations,” says Eran Mizrahi. “Every exhibitor puts forth a tremendous creative effort to present their products in the most innovative ways. But most of all, I’m immensely proud of our team’s collaborative spirit and hard work. I’m already looking forward to next year’s event!”
We’re going to sit back now, catch our breath, and enjoy a refreshing can of CLEAR with a packet of Harvest Snaps. We’ll talk again soon.
But don’t worry – if you ever find yourself in need of a new ingredient, don’t hesitate to reach out to us! We’re here for you as always! 😉
