From Sustainability to Trust: How the Food Industry Evolved in 2024
Corbion Food
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This year, the food industry experienced significant changes fueled by shifting consumer expectations, new innovations, and a growing emphasis on sustainability and transparency. From tackling food waste and advancing clean-label solutions to strengthening consumer trust and addressing the need for convenience, 2024 was a year of growth and adaptation.
Here are the key learnings from this year’s Fresh Perspective articles to serve as a springboard into the new year ahead.
Sustainability is more than a buzzword—it’s a business driver. Modern consumers, especially Millennials and Gen Z, demand sustainable products, pushing companies to innovate through carbon reduction, responsible sourcing, and waste minimization. Products marketed with sustainability outperform competitors, offering growth and customer loyalty opportunities. Brands that embrace sustainability as a strategic priority today are building resilience and trust for tomorrow.
Quality meets innovation in food solutions. As consumers prioritize convenience, health, and safety, innovative tools like predictive food safety models and label-friendly ingredients help processors tackle challenges like waste and shelf-life extension. These solutions meet consumer expectations and reduce costs and inefficiencies in industries like meat processing, making food safer and fresher for longer.
Trust, transparency, and clean labels drive loyalty. In a world shaped by uncertainty, consumers seek control through healthy, transparent food choices. Brands that simplify ingredient lists, embrace sustainability, and provide clear, ethical practices can foster deeper trust. Transparency isn't just good ethics—it's a competitive edge in earning loyal, informed customers.
Read the full articles here.
Freshness goes beyond shelf life—it’s about quality consumers can taste. From longer-lasting bread to clean-label solutions, enzyme technologies offer bakers innovative tools to slow staling and maintain texture and flavor. These advancements reduce food waste while delivering the authentic, fresh-baked experience consumers demand, meeting both taste and sustainability goals.
The rise of GLP-1 medications is reshaping food priorities. Appetite-suppressing drugs have spurred demand for nutrient-dense, high-protein, and functional foods. Manufacturers have a unique opportunity to cater to health-focused consumers with innovative, label-friendly options that align with modern wellness goals. Agility and clear health messaging are key to capturing this evolving market.
Make your cookouts safe, delicious, and stress-free. Summer grilling comes with food safety risks like cross-contamination and improper temperature control. Practical tips—like keeping perishables below 40°F and ensuring meats are cooked to safe internal temps—help avoid foodborne illnesses. Safe grilling practices mean everyone, including vulnerable groups, can enjoy worry-free outdoor gatherings.
Read the full articles here.
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Food is medicine: Preventive health is driving the future of nutrition. Consumers increasingly turn to functional foods—rich in probiotics, vitamins, and proteins—to boost immunity, heart health, and digestion. With the functional food market projected to exceed $500 billion by 2028, brands that innovate with nutrient-dense options can meet the rising demand for healthier lifestyles.
Convenience drives today’s mealtime decisions. Consumers favor quick, efficient meal solutions like pre-prepped ingredients, one-pot recipes, and grab-and-go options that fit their routines. For brands and grocers, offering innovative, easy-to-prepare solutions—complete with digital tools like QR-coded recipes—builds loyalty and positions them as trusted culinary resources.
Transparency is the key to restoring consumer confidence. As trust in food safety declines, brands must lead with transparency—offering clear labels, certifications, and safety assurances. Collaborative efforts with trusted partners and ingredient suppliers help ensure quality, reduce recalls, and foster confidence in the food supply chain.
Read the full articles here.
Reducing waste is a win for wallets and the planet. With food prices up 28% since 2019, consumers are more mindful than ever about minimizing waste and maximizing value. Brands that provide solutions—like smaller portions, storage tips, and creative ways to use near-expiry items—align with consumer priorities while driving sustainability and savings.
Tradition meets innovation on the holiday table. “Newstalgia” blends comforting family recipes with modern, global flavors, transforming holiday meals. From air fryer shortcuts to adventurous sides like mole-seasoned turkey, consumers are reimagining traditions. Brands that offer convenient, creative products empower home cooks to deliver festive, memorable meals with ease.
Read the full articles here.
Reflecting on 2024, the food industry showed how innovation, sustainability, and a strong focus on consumer trust can drive meaningful change. These trends weren’t just highlights of the year—they laid the groundwork for ongoing growth and resilience. As businesses continue to adapt, these priorities will shape the future, helping to meet evolving consumer needs and build a more sustainable food system. By embracing these shifts, the industry is positioned to make an even greater impact in the years ahead.