Flavors and fragrances are more important than ever for F&B companies creating rich sensory experiences.

Congratulations to New York-based Cafe Spice, R&FF’s 2024 Processor of the Year! 

A private label powerhouse, Cafe Spice produces its own branded RTE meals as well as co-manufactured and foodservice products for customers including Whole Foods, Kroger and Amazon.

LISTEN NOW: Their clean-label massive mozzarella sticks are a branded menu item at major concert venues and in just over a year have made it into 3,500+ retail doors. 

Focusing R&D on marrying convenience and nutrition will be key for F&B manufacturers and processors to keep the consumer engaged, win the shelf space and maintain pricing power. 

Nearly two-thirds of U.S. households buy plant-based products, with the market for alternative dairy, protein and other cold and frozen products expanding. What’s next for manufacturers and processors?

Technology can play an important role in combating rising energy costs by cutting consumption and helping cold chain operators identify their weak points.

Refrigerated & Frozen Foods often focuses on new innovations along the cold chain – everything from automation and robotics to new processing techniques and packaging technologies. 

A report by the National Safety Council lists the average cost of a workplace injury at $40,000, with a total estimated economic impact of $167 billion in 2022 alone.

Automation – the word is everywhere in the food and beverage business – but many growing companies are looking for ways to maximize investments and add automation alongside plant renovations or expansions.