What cultural and consumer shifts are affecting consumer packaged good (CPG) trends? Market and consumer trends researcher Mintel, Chicago, says a dozen factors will impact CPG products in 2011.

Although consumers are still reeling from the aftershock created by the global economic crisis, they have learned lessons, changed behaviors, adapted and created a new way of life.

If you don’t want fast food and you don’t want an expensive full service meal, a "fast casual" restaurant might be just the ticket, says Mintel.

Snacking is the new way to order at restaurants, says Mintel.

Mintel, Chicago, says the environment remains a concern for the majority of Americans. More than one-third (35 percent) of survey respondents say they would pay more for "environmentally friendly" products.

The most important meal of the day has become the hottest area of competition for the foodservice industry, says Mintel.

Restaurants and foodservice establishments serving up convenience are poised to do well in this post-recession economy.

A slumping national economy took its toll on food and drink manufacturers in 2009.

Global consumer and market researcher Mintel International Group said it hired  Pete Giannakopoulos as president for the company's Chicago-based Mintel Americas’ Consumer Packaged Goods (CPG).

How do you follow up a wild year of $5 menus, gourmet meals for paupers’ prices and buy-one-get-one restaurant specials? You return to quality.