Podcasts about natural products expo east

In this episode, Jules has little to no voice but is powering through her duties as a podcast co-host. The ladies review their favorite gluten-free products from 2023 Natural Products Expo East (RIP Expo East). RESOURCES:Upcycled Food Association Blue Circle Foods Bake Me Healthy Shroomeats Peak State Coffee Apricot Power mushroom coffee (Please don't get cyanide poisoning) Nona Lim heat-and-eat entrees coming soon Dream Pops candy Elmhurst 1925 RTD lattes Goodie Girl Pumpkin Sandwich Cookies Cappello's Buttermilk Biscuits Primal Kitchen dairy-free Buffalo Sauce Lakanto sugar-free sauces Coco Caye coconut sugar 18 Chestnuts soup I Eat My Greens soup Barlow's maple syrups Tru Earth plastic free cleaners HiBar plastic free shampoo and conditioner Better with Buckwheat and Maine crisp Artisan Tropic new crackers Every Body Eat Surthrival Black Walnut protein powder Date Better SnacksCaulipower Dill Chicken Bites coming soonGood Planet Olive Oil cheeseContact/Follow Jules & Erica Tweet us @THEgfJules & @CeliacBeast Find us on IG @CeliacandTheBeast & @gfJules Follow us on FB @gfJules & @CeliacandTheBeast Email us at support@gfJules.com Find more articles, recipes & info at gfJules.com & celiacandthebeast.com Thanks for listening! Be sure to subscribe!**some links may be affiliate links; purchasing through these links will not cost you more, but will help to fund the podcast you ❤️

After nearly four decades of serving the natural and organic CPG industry, natural products media group New Hope Network has announced that the 2023 Natural Products Expo East will be the trade show's final edition. Natural Products Expo West will continue to take place annually in Anaheim, California. And springing up in place of EXPO East is a new show called Newtopia Now — which will be designed to provide more opportunities for brands to meaningfully participate, regardless of where they are at in their lifecycle.Supermarket News Executive Editor Chloe Riley spoke with Jessica Rubino, vice president, content at New Hope Network, about trends on the show floor at the final EXPO East, as well as taking a look ahead, for an exciting preview of the group's latest trade show: Newtopia Now.Take a listen.**Have a pitch for the podcast? Reach out at contactus@supermarketnews.com. And thanks for listening.

By any measure, consumers are drinking less alcohol. While their reasons for abstaining vary, the occasions in which they consume beer, wine and spirits have remained consistent. The circumstances have created an opportunity for alcohol alternative brands like TÖST to innovate and find relevance among mainstream consumers.  Launched in 2018, TÖST markets sparkling non-alcoholic beverages made with white tea, white cranberry concentrate, ginger extract and other natural flavors. The products, which are available in two varieties, original and rosé, come in 750 mL individual bottles and 4-packs of 250 mL bottles . Distinguished by its sleek and minimalist label, the brand has won over consumers seeking a sophisticated alternative for occasions when they might typically drink alcohol. Distributed in 40 states, TÖST is carried by major retailers in a variety of channels, including Whole Foods, BevMo and CVS. Earlier this year, the venture capital arm of beverage alcohol conglomerate Constellation Brands acquired a minority stake in TÖST, praising its “delicious liquid that feels celebratory… and also versatile and approachable for everyday enjoyment.”   In this episode, TÖST CEO Brooks Addington spoke about how the brand has carved out a positioning that has resonated with all types of consumers and how its thoughtful communication strategy has given it a leg up over competing products. Show notes: 0:43: Interview: Brooks Addington, CEO, TÖST – Addington spoke with Taste Radio editor Ray Latif at Natural Products Expo East 2023 where they chatted about the final edition of the event, his passion for architecture and how his background in financial services and worldly experience prepared him for his current role. He also spoke about the rise in abstinence among younger consumers, the origins of TÖST and how the liquid and package were designed to meet the expectations of a sophisticated drinking experience, and why it's critical for the brand to have an affordable price point. Later, Addington discussed TÖST's retail and merchandising strategies, why having few competitors is “a double-edged sword,” the company's strategic partnership with Constellation Brands and why it's important to be frugal with marketing dollars.  Brands in this episode: TÖST

Join Filip and Matt as they politely ambush exhibitors at EXPO EAST (Sept 20-23 in Philadelphia, PA, USA). These are the 10 brands they interviewed on the fly. Filip is the EVP at The Pickle Juice Company - https://picklepower.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/fkeuppens/ I love this hysterical "non-profit" they set up https://savethepickles.org/   Lift Bar - https://liftbar.com/ Bone Suckin' Foods - https://bonesuckin.com/ Manuka Honey (New Zeland)  Fire Department Coffee - https://www.firedeptcoffee.com/ Natural Endurance - https://naturalendurance.com/ Araza Natural Purees LLC - https://arazapurees.com/ Miracle Noodle - https://miraclenoodle.com/ Awake Chocolate - https://awakechocolate.com/ Prime Shrimp - https://www.primeshrimp.com/ Pocono Matt Kovacs is the President of Blaze PR and has appeared numerous times on the podcast. He can be reached here -https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattjkovacs/ Season 3 Episode 58 Connect with Tony About me and my mission and the podcast: Are you looking for a fun and light-hearted podcast to discover unique brands and learn about the people and strategies successful companies are implementing in the CPG and Food and Beverage Industry?  The brands featured here take us into the world of innovation, sustainability, good for you, lifestyle, QSR, Foodservice, Distribution, DTC, Club, and more. I am a fun-loving business leader, podcaster, husband, dad, cyclist, and Convention of States volunteer in my spare time. My mission is to discover the people and ideas behind these different, better, and special companies.    Entrepreneurs and CEOs, are you: Searching for distributor or broker partners?  Actively prospecting commercial buyers to gain more points of distribution? Searching for the right person to add to the team? My Direct Response Marketing Service attracts exactly what you need to help your brand thrive and grow.  Here is a NOVEL approach to ATTRACT distributors, buyers, and people (DEMO)   Contact me: Tony@timpl.com Follow me on LinkedIn: Different, Better, Special Brands Join Our Community Music from Uppbeat and ZapSplat https://uppbeat.io/t/soundroll/get-the-funk-in License code: SF3WUKBUJQULFHXE TIKTOK | INSTAGRAM | YOUTUBE | LINKEDIN PAGE | LINKEDIN GROUP  

It was fun while it lasted... The hosts shared highlights from the final edition of Natural Products Expo East, including new brands, standout collaborations and innovative line extensions. Show notes: 0:35: Cinderella Song… Or Is It? Fork & Spork. Mixed Bag O' Sweeteners. Mike Didn't Dunk. –  The hosts discussed the community's reaction to the sunsetting of Expo East and what might mean for other trade shows, offered dining recommendations for Philly and reviewed a rare collaboration between a food and beverage brand. They also riffed on low-sugar gummies and chocolates and the challenge in marketing products made with non-nutritive sweeteners, pickle-flavored foods and upstart brands marketing better-for-you trail mix, pecan milk, kid-centric nutrition bars and “modern Middle Eastern” hummus and pita bread. Brands in this episode: Aura Bora, Graza, ChocXo, Chutni Punch, Blobs, Root Foods, Treehouse Naturals, Better Sour, Patience Fruit & Co., Bollygood, Recoup Beverages, PLINK!, Daily Crunch, Dalsi, Happy Wolf, Absurd Snacks, MALK, This PKN, Baba's, Ziba Foods, Maazah, Ya Oaxaca!

In this episode, the hosts explained why founders who regularly attend industry events are often better positioned to support their brands than those who don't, riffed on the impact of sleek and clever packaging and marveled at a sparkling water brand's latest LTO. This episode also features an interview with Michael Lewis, the founder and general manager of oomph!, a new brand of low-sugar, functional candy chews and gummies that is backed by venture capital firm Science Inc., an investor in Liquid Death and Dollar Shave Club, among others.  Show notes: 0:45: No, These Are Not Dad Jokes. Long Lists Getting Longer. Some Standout Package Design. – Ray got the show going with a few truths before he, John and Mike spoke about why networking opportunities at BevNET Live and NOSH Live are unlike those at other industry events. They also highlighted a new olive oil brand with a catchy name and unusual label, why Ray was particularly impressed with a recently launched plant-based breakfast sandwich, an RTD cocktail whose package resembles the shape of a CD and a collaboration that, TBH, is pretty special. 20:20: Michael Lewis, Founder and General Manager, Oomph! – Lewis met with Taste Radio editor Ray Latif at Natural Products Expo East 2022 where he spoke about how Science Inc., which developed and incubated oomph, evaluated the opportunity for better-for-you candy, why the venture capital firm saw him as the right person to lead the charge, how oomph is applying learnings from early customer feedback into its marketing and communication strategy and why innovation is top of mind. Brands in this episode: Dream Pops, Single & Fat, Ferm Fatale, Alpha Foods, Graza, Brightland, Cocchi, Whitebox Cocktails, Sap's, Aura Bora, Chubby Snacks, TBH, Transcendence Coffee, oomph!, Liquid Death, SmartSweets

Founded on the belief that mindful eating shouldn't mean sacrificing on taste or texture, Outstanding Foods markets plant-based salty snacks that are based on quintessential favorites.  Launched in 2018, Outstanding Foods was developed by serial entrepreneur Bill Glaser and chef Dave Anderson, who previously led R&D at Beyond Meat. The brand's cheese balls, puffs and pork rinds are vegan, gluten-free and made with Non-GMO ingredients and plant-based protein. The brand also touts its cheese balls as “the first salty snack to have a good source of 20 vitamins and minerals.” Over the past two years, Outstanding Foods has attracted $15 million in funding, and its investor roster includes names like Snoop Dogg, Rob Dyrdek and Cesar Milan. The capital has helped Outstanding Foods expand distribution to thousands of retail stores nationwide, including Whole Foods, Walmart, Costco, Safeway and 7-Eleven. In this episode, Glaser spoke about how he has applied lessons from prior entrepreneurial ventures to the company's business strategy, how the brand has attracted celebrity investors and involved them in marketing and promotion efforts, and the evolution of Outstanding Foods' package design and its alignment with the company's innovation and retail strategies. Show notes: 0:45: Bill Glaser, Co-Founder & CEO, Outstanding Foods – Glaser and Taste Radio editor Ray Latif met at Natural Products Expo East 2022 in Philadelphia where the entrepreneur spoke about how he manages work/life balance, ways in which prior work experiences prepared him for the packaged food industry and how Outstanding Foods continues to operate with the same focus and vision from when it launched. He also discussed his approach to working with and raising money from well-known individuals, why Outstanding Foods doesn't take its cues from retail buyers when developing new products, and how the company has utilized consumer learnings to make label tweaks and introduce a brand revamp. Brands in this episode: Outstanding Foods

The DSBQ episode is Back…and my colleague, Parker Olson

#64: In this episode, Jord and I are chatting about the new products and latest trends we saw while attending the 2022 Natural Products Expo East in Philadelphia. We also give an update on our venture fund - grt sht ventures and what we have been up to since launching in the spring. Heres a recap of some of the brands and products we discuss in today's episode from Expo East 2022: Jack & Annies Egglife Fabalish  HumanCo - Against the Grain, Snowdays, Cosmic Bliss GoNanas SweetNothings Dalci Marco Ice Cream Whoa  RIND Snacks Soley  Tony's Chocolate Purely Elizabeth P.S. Snacks Lyre's Some food trends we noticed while at Expo East 2022: Sunflower Oil Candy gummies Allulose Non-alcoholic beverages - spirits, wine (Surely), beer  Less emphasis on plant based meat and cheese Finally, we provide an update on our venture fund: grt sht ventures and our latest investment into Seven Sundays.   For more from me, I'm over on IG @rachLmansfield, tiktok @rachLmansfield and rachLmansfield.com

Natural Products Expo East may not be as big as its West Coast counterpart, but the 18,500 registered attendees and more than 1,200 exhibitors who convened in Philadelphia earlier this month for the annual conference were just as enthusiastic and the innovations they showcased revealed what is most important to natural and organic shoppers: products that are better for people and the planet.

In this special episode, Jules and Erica recap their favorite new gluten-free, plant-based, and allergen-free products found at Natural Products Expo East 2023 in Philadelphia, PA!Natural Products Expo is a biannual, industry-only event occurring on the east coast and the west coast.  At Expo, brands showcase the best of their new product releases in hopes that retailers will put them on their store shelves and press will feature them.Erica and Jules attend the event as press and bring you their favorites to look for in the coming year!{Hop to the chapters to skip to particular product categories.}Regenerative Ag/Up-cycled/Eco-FriendlySparkling EverythingMeat AlternativesNon-Dairy Milk AlternativesSweetsSeasonal ProductsProduct Links:The Unscented CompanyZiptopPasture BirdWholly VeggieAsarasi maple water (affliate link)Jelly Belly Sparkling Water (afflilate link)Remedy Komucha (Orange Splash) Tribucha (SuberB)Jack & Annie's (Jackfruit)Hella Nuts (walnut meat)Current Foods (vegan, sushi grade seafood)Atlantic Sea Farms (kelp burger)Primal KitchenPlant PerksSpero Sunflower Cream Cheese & Pepita EggGood PLANeT vegan cheeseNuts for Cheese Cashew Cheese (brie)Treeline Vegan GoatcheeseYofiit Chickpea High Protein Milk AlternativeOatlyNadaMooFresh CourtChocoloveLiesse ChocolatierContact/Follow Jules & Erica Tweet us @THEgfJules & @CeliacBeast Find us on IG @CeliacandTheBeast & @gfJules Follow us on FB @gfJules & @CeliacandTheBeast Email us at support@gfJules.com Find more articles, recipes & info at gfJules.com & celiacandthebeast.com Thanks for listening! Be sure to subscribe!**some links may be affiliate links; purchasing through these links will not cost you more, but will help to fund the podcast you ❤️

On location at Natural Products Expo East 2022, the hosts shared their respective takes on standout products and brands exhibited during the first two days of the annual trade show, which is  being held at the Philadelphia Convention Center. The roundup highlights several brands that are using better-for-you, innovative and plant-based ingredients to disrupt legacy food and beverage categories. Show notes: 0:39: Getting The Band Back Together. Everyone Loves Bryan Adams. What Can't You Milk? – Former BevNET brand specialist Melissa Traverse returns the show as a special guest co-host, and it's as if no time has passed. The hosts applauded the launch of and team behind Just Ice Tea, riffed on notable brands exhibited at Expo East's Harvest Festival and debated whether Mike should be whispering about brownies. Later, Melissa named her “plant-based milk of the show,” Ray's praised a pouch-packaged soup brand and John highlighted several premium sparkling tea brands. Brands in this episode: Eat The Change, Just Ice Tea, Munchrooms, Lupii, Good Food For Good, Spero Foods, Supplant Co., Dalci, Elmhurst Naturals, Nitro Beverage Co., Small Batch Organics, bettermoo(d)   Milk, Rip Van, I Eat My Greens, Pocket Latte, Fabalish, Sarilla, Tama Tea, Reishi Sparkling Botanicals, Inner Love Foods, Aqua ViTea, Eastern Standard Provisions, Fila Manila, Nara Foods, Oat Haus, Caulipower, Joolies, Chubby Snacks, Lil Bucks, Oba Snacks

In this episode, Taste Radio's hosts discussed the significance of great taste for functional products, a highly effective way for entrepreneurs to get their brands in the hands of industry gatekeepers and debated on whether the rise of RTD cocktails will impact the premium mixer segment. We also feature short interviews focused on trends and innovation with Bonnie Shah, the VP of marketing and innovation for Molson Coors-backed incubator and accelerator L.A. Libations, and Sunanda Patel, the founder and CEO of TumiBee, an upstart brand of Ayurvedic beverage mixes.  Show notes: 0:53: We're So Psyched About This Banter -- The episode opened with Ray sharing his thoughts about our return to live events and how a recent tweet sparked a conversation about functional products and, along with it, WD-40, riffed on the appropriate texture for dried fruit and encouraged listeners to share their brands with us at BevNET and NOSH Live. The hosts also congratulated Vita Coco co-founder/CEO Mike Kirban on the company's recent IPO, got revved up about newly launched gin, relaxed about a kava-infused water and rational regarding a new non-alcoholic beer brand. 24:06: Bonnie Shah, VP Marketing and Innovation, L.A. Libations -- Shah sat down with Taste Radio editor Ray Latif at Natural Products Expo East 2021 where she spoke about her role with L.A. Libations (LAL), a beverage creator, incubator and accelerator that is minority owned by the Molson Coors Beverage Co. She also discussed LAL's recently launched So-Cal Incubation Program, nicknamed SIP, the company's retail partnerships and efforts to drive awareness and sales for emerging brands, her perspective on beverage innovation, functional ingredient trends and how direct-to-consumer sales fit into the firm's business model. 39:20: Interview: Sunanda Patel, Founder & CEO, TumiBee -- Patel joined Latif for a conversation, also recorded at Expo East, about the creation of TumiBee, an upstart brand of turmeric-based beverage mixes and her experience launching the brand amid the Covid pandemic. She also spoke about Tumibee's formidable DTC business, the company's social marketing and consumer education strategies and how she evaluated and adjusted her pricing strategy. Brands in this episode: 5-hour Energy, TCHO, Alta, Chooza, Teaonic, Vita Coco, Abbot's Butcher, BetterBrand, AVEC, Q Drinks, Engine Gin, Stillhouse, Psychedelic Water, Leilo, Rationale Brewing, Chika Chika Boom Boom, Agua Bonita, ZOA Energy, ZENWTR, Red Bull, Monster Energy, Arriba, Brightfox, Athletic Brewing Co., Mingle Mocktails, Shaka Tea, NUUN, Halo Sport, Orro, TumiBee

Omsom is one of the most publicized and respected food startups in recent memory, and for good reason.  Launched in May 2020 by sisters and first-generation Vietnamese-Americans Vanessa and Kim Pham, Omsom markets chef-crafted starter kits that the company describes as “pantry shortcuts for specific Asian dishes” that include sauces, aromatics and seasonings all in a single package. A consumer combines the starter with protein and/or vegetables to create a finished dish. Since its debut, Omsom has captured the attention of consumer and trade media with its dazzling labels (the brand picked up a Best Package Design award from NOSH last year) and innovative approach to at-home meal prep. The company's most notable aspect, however, is the story of its founders and their vision to break long-standing barriers in how ethnic food is perceived and sold. In an interview featured in this episode, Vanessa Pham joined us for an expansive conversation about Omsom's mission and business philosophy, why she and Kim set out to build a brand for all consumers and the reason they don't use the word “authentic” when describing Omsom or its products. Vanessa also spoke about the company's retail and merchandising strategy, how the team is attempting to align buyers with their vision for the future of grocery, their PR strategy and why it has been effective in attracting national media attention and why she is bullish about greater financial investment in BIPOC-owned brands.  This episode also includes a short interview with Caroline Cotto, the co-founder and COO of Renewal Mill, a brand of baking ingredients, mixes and sweet snacks made from upcycled byproducts of food production. Cotto joined us for a conversation about the Renewal Mill's origins and vision, multi-pronged approach to product development, its alignment with brands of a similar focus and how the company is positioning itself to be the go-to supplier for upcycled food ingredients. Show notes: 0:52: Interview: Vanessa Pham, Co-Founder & CEO, Omsom -- Following a brief chat about her recent croissant-laden respite, Pham spoke with Taste Radio editor Ray Latif about the inspiration for and meaning behind Omsom, her parents' influence on the brand's creation and the role her experience working at Bain & Co. played in the company's emergence. Pham also explained why she and her sister/co-founder Kim chose starter kits as the brand's inaugural product line and why observers may be mistaken into thinking the company has a niche focus, the extensive research that went into Omsom's development and why the company uses the term “cultural integrity” instead of “authentic.” Later, she discussed the target consumer for Omsom, the ideal retail placement for its products, the company's approach to bridging the gap between online and brick-and-mortar retail, how the PR strategy and resulting media coverage inherently tie into Omsom's vision and her recommendations on how financial organizations can increase funding for women and minority-led businesses. 47:24: Interview: Caroline Cotto, Co-Founder & COO, Renewal Mill -- In an interview recorded at Natural Products Expo East 2021, Latif sat down with Cotto to talk about Renewal Mill's product portfolio, retail footprint and how the company's marketing and communication strategy has evolved since its launch. She also discussed the brand's innovation pipeline, which leans on “familiar vehicles to introduce novel ingredients,” as well as its approach to co-branding partnerships and the company's pricing strategy. Later, Cotto explained Renewal Mill's thoughtful growth strategy and why she expects its ingredient business to be the primary focus in the future and her background prior to founding the company.  Brands in this episode: Omsom, Renewal Mill, Siete, Recess, Tia Lupita, Pulp Pantry, Fancypants Baking Co., Simple Mills

It's common for someone to see a jar of NuttZo for the first time and wonder, ‘Why is it upside down?' The majority of the brand's nut- and seed-based butters are packaged such that the twist cap is at the base of the jar, allowing for the ingredients' natural oils to rise to the top and make it easier for consumers to stir and blend before use. The unique design is essential for attracting awareness and gaining trial, but as NuttZo founder and CEO Danielle LiVolsi explained in an interview featured in this episode, winning customer loyalty and a policy of no regrets have been the keys to her brand's success. Founded in 2008, NuttZo, which markets all-natural snack bars in addition to its butters, has become a nationally recognized brand available in over 10,000 grocery stores including Walmart and Costco. A former radio sales executive, Danielle bootstrapped the company's launch and development and has emphasized steady growth and a focus on consumer demand for high quality ingredients and customer service. A mother to two adopted sons who are the inspiration for the brand, Danielle also leads NuttZo's sister nonprofit, Project Left Behind, for which a portion of all sales support orphaned and underserved children around the world.  As part of our conversation, LiVolsi recounted the creation of NuttZo and the creative ways that she won the brand's first retail buyers, why she adheres to the Nordstrom model of customer service, the reason she has turned down offers to invest in the company and why she fears regret more than she does failure.  Also featured in this episode is an interview with Kun Yang, the co-founder and CEO of Pricklee. Co-founded by a team of pharmacists and launched in 2017, Pricklee markets beverages made from prickly pear juice and is described as “cactus water.” Yang recalled Pricklee's backstory, how his team is leveraging consumer awareness about coconut water to build the brand, the impact of localized social marketing and what he described as the keys to learning the ropes of the beverage business and adapting quickly. Show notes: 0:45: Interview: Danielle LiVolsi, Founder & CEO, NuttZo -- LiVolsi and Taste Radio editor Ray Latif kicked off their conversation with a discussion about a helpful Facebook Group called #OMGCPG, how global supply chain issues affected the launch of a new product, why getting massages are great for ideation and how she de-stresses and avoids burnout. She also recalled early challenges in product development, how she landed meetings with a Whole Foods buyer and the founder of natural grocery chain Jimbo's, why she's adamant about not accepting outside investment unless it's a ‘perfect fit' and why she tapped her mother to manage phone-based customer service for the company. Later, she explained why she is still regularly involved in sales meetings and why she believes that despite missteps in building Nuttzo, she wouldn't do anything differently. 44:48: Interview: Kun Yang, Co-Founder and CEO, Pricklee -- Latif sat down with Yang for a conversation with Yang recorded at Natural Products Expo East 2021, where the entrepreneur discussed the inspiration for Pricklee and its diverse team of founders and how the company is using coconut water as a point of reference for new consumers while simultaneously calling for “NOMOCOCO.” He also spoke about how Pricklee is utilizing TikTok and Instagram to target consumers in specific regions of the U.S., the brand's uses of SMS-based marketing and why building a community of advisors has been critical to the company's growth. The interview also includes a brief cameo from none other than The Beverage Whisperer himself, Ken Sadowsky. Brands in this episode: NuttZo, Jif, Pricklee

This episode highlights notable news and new products from the perspective of Taste Radio hosts Ray Latif, Jacqui Brugliera and Mike Schneider, including an unusual cola collaboration, a groundbreaking law impacting CBD brands, flavor-driven innovation in overnight oatmeal, RTD cocktails and hummus. The show also includes updates on BevNET and NOSH's upcoming pitch competitions, a recap on beverage-related innovation, news and trends observed at the recently held 2021 NACS trade show and interviews with two entrepreneurs representing emerging brands: Cori Sue Morris, the founder and CEO of super-premium nut butter brand Retreat Foods and Susan Palmer, the founder and CEO of Little Red Kitchen Bake Shop, a maker of small-batch baked goods. Show notes: 1:05: Love It Or Hate It… We're Talking About It. -- The hosts opined about Pepsi's new limited-edition Cracker Jack flavor, why we're convinced that we have a brand competition that would suit almost any early-stage food or beverage company, Mike's excitement at the passage of Assembly Bill 45 and products that tickled the hosts' fancy over the past week, including a remarkable non-alcoholic canned cocktail and an upstart brand of freeze dried fruits and vegetables that is so(w) good. 21:14: A Re-Energized NACS Show -- Taste Radio editor Ray Latif sat down with BevNET Managing Editor Martin Caballero to discuss his major takeaways from this year's NACS trade show, including  innovation in the energy drink category and how emerging brands are targeting the space, new products from the Coca-Cola Co. and PepsiCo that are targeting the convenience store channel and Vita Coco's new canned offering. 33:13: Interview: Cori Sue Morris, Founder/CEO, Retreat Foods -- Latif spoke with Morris at Natural Products Expo East 2021 for a conversation about the backstory and positioning of Retreat Foods, which markets adaptogenic-infused nut butters, why she's targeting Goop enthusiasts and how she mapped out social and pricing strategies for the brand. 43:05: Interview:  Susan Palmer, Founder & CEO, Little Red Kitchen Bake Shop -- Also recorded at the Expo East 2020 show, Latif spoke with Palmer, whose Brooklyn-based company makes small batch, artisan cookies and sweet treats that are baked with mostly organic, fair trade and non-GMO ingredients. The conversation chronicled Palmer's experience as an entrepreneur, her commitment to high quality ingredients, the challenges of wholesaling fresh products, the company's recent alignment with rapid delivery service Gorillas and how she's positioning the brand for distribution in major retail chains. Brands in this episode: Ghia, Ithaca Hummus, Diesel Water, Sow Good, MUSH, Pepsi, Cedar's, Later Days Coffee, A Dash, Alani Nu, Soul Fixx Elixirs, MOSH, Super Coffee, Ethan's, Riot Energy, Shaka Tea, Zoa, C4, Rockstar Energy, Bang Energy, Monster Energy, Naked Juice, Smartwater, AHA, Minute Maid, Zico, Odwalla, Suja, Barrilitos, Vita Coco, Retreat Foods, Little Red Kitchen Bake Shop

Judie Bizzozero, content director, Food & Beverage Insider, and Alex Smolokoff, associate editor, Food & Beverage Insider, break down the trending ingredients, formats and messaging that stood out on the Natural Products Expo East show floor.

Four inspired founders. Four disruptive brands. Four stories about innovation, preparation and persistence. In this episode, recorded at Natural Products Expo East 2021, Taste Radio editor Ray Latif sat down with four early-stage and emerging brand owners, including Emily Griffith, the founder and CEO of Lil Bucks, a brand of sprouted buckwheat snacks; Tyler Phillips, the founder and CEO of chickpea-based muffin company Hummii; Dyanna Salcedo, the co-founder and CEO of kids oatmeal brand Oats In Coats; and Bev Martin, the co-founder of Simply Ghee, a maker of grass-fed ghee products. The entrepreneurs reflected on their respective paths within the food industry, from brand ideation and early struggles to social strategies and retail planning. The conversations highlight the perspective of founders who are attempting to reframe legacy categories via next-generation brands and products. 1:36: Interview: Emily Griffith, Founder & CEO, Lil Bucks -- Griffith spoke about her efforts to expand the availability of Lil Bucks from natural to mainstream retail channels, the impact of the brand's inclusion within Target's accelerator program and how she's refined the company's consumer marketing strategy. She also discussed innovation planning, investor reception to the brand, crowdfunding efforts and staffing needs. Later, she shared a warning to other early-stage entrepreneurs about having to buy back stock from retailers, the importance of building a community, attracting and compensating advisors and how Lil Bucks is focused on creating localized social content via Tik Tok. 19:57: Interview: Tyler Phillips, Founder & CEO, Hummii -- Phillips shared the inspiration for Hummii, and the brand's origins in Puerto Rico, how the name was derived from a combination of hummus, healthy and yummy and the challenges in working with chickpeas. He also discussed the brand's quirky logo and label design, how he assesses staffing needs and why passion and flexibility are key to working with early stage companies. Later, he spoke about aligning with accelerator programs, creating a community around the brand and Hummii's ongoing Kickstarter campaign. 30:29: Interview: Dyanna Salcedo, Co-Founder & CEO, Oats In Coats -- Salcedo spoke about her background in investment banking and cutting her teeth in CPG, the genesis of Oats In Coats and how the company is attempting to differentiate itself from legacy oatmeal brands by injecting fun and creativity into its branding and marketing. She also explained how the brand is approaching storytelling through graphics and games, its role as a facilitator between parents and kids, why she views Oats In Coats as “kid-friendly but not childish,” the differences between being CPG executive versus a founder and why the company's go-to-market strategy includes alternative retail channels. 41:11: Interview: Bev Martin, Co-Founder, Simply Ghee -- After a quick explanation of how ghee is made, Martin spoke about what he views as the mainstream opportunities for the product, the origins of the Simply Ghee name and its tagline of “better butter,” and a recent brand revamps. She also discussed the company's roots in Lancaster, Penn. and the area as a key source of A2 milk, standing out from competing and commodity brands by highlighting independence and quality and sourcing and her experience transitioning into the food industry. Later, she discussed challenges from growing too fast, how the company is attempting to align with consumer lifestyles via grassroots marketing and how she gauges the potential for new products. Brands in this episode: Lil Bucks, Manitoba Harvest, Hummii, Entenmann's, Oats In Coats, Minna, Enjoy Life Foods, Five Acre Farms, Mid-Day Squares, Simply Ghee

It was an unconventional convention, yet Natural Products Expo East 2021 was nevertheless a memorable event. Following a one-year hiatus, the annual trade show settled into its new home in Philadelphia where Taste Radio hosts Ray Latif, John Craven and Mike Schneider met with dozens of food and beverage brand exhibitors along with many early-stage founders and first-time attendees who walked the floor.  In this episode, Latif, Craven and Schneider discussed the general mood and reception for Expo East 2021 and what it means  for the future of in-person industry events. They also highlighted several new and recently launched products featured at the show and later debated the merits of traditional ingredients when crafting a host-favorite cocktail. Show notes: 0:34: Ripping The Band-Aid Off, Startup Parties And A Call For Campari -- The hosts chatted about the positive energy of attendees at Expo East, what it was like interacting mask-to-mask, sampling at the event and what made it a manageable show. They also spoke about investor and retail presence at Expo East, a unique pizza record player, attending industry parties and looking forward to more in-person and competitions coming in December at BevNET Live, NOSH Live and Brewbound Live. Later, Ray recalled an unfortunate (first-world problem) moment experienced at Expo East that led to a conversation about negronis and what should and shouldn't be included in the cocktail. Brands in this episode: Caulipower, TBH, Aura Bora, Shaka Tea, Not Just Co., Humm Kombucha, Papa's Pops, Honey Smacks, Deux, Miss Jones Baking Co., Dream Pops, RIND, St. James Tea, AriZona Beverages, Other World Foods, Oats in Coats, Hummii, Campari, Forthave Spirits, Aperol, Boissiere Vermouth, Bottega Bacur

If you're trying to catch flies, try honey. But if you're attempting to land distribution at every Whole Foods store in North America, vinegar might be your best bet. At least that was the case with Acid League, a platform brand of experimental condiments and beverages that is aiming to redefine center-store categories for modern consumers. Launched by a team of food scientists in fall 2020, Acid League markets a variety of premium fermented products. The brand portfolio includes raw and unfiltered vinegars and vinaigrettes made with esoteric flavors such as Toasted Thai and Smoked Malt, apple cider vinegar tonics promoted “to taste as good as it makes you feel” and a line of non-alcoholic wines called Proxies that are made from juices, tea, spices and bitters. Leading with the tagline of “gut-friendly gastronomy,” the Toronto-based company had a remarkable start even before getting out of the gate: despite having no commercialized product, Acid League won a commitment from Whole Foods to carry its entire vinegar line in all of the retailer's locations in the U.S. and Canada. The company, which operates its own production facilities, has since expanded its presence in Whole Foods and several other retail chains, and also operates a robust direct-to-consumer business anchored in subscription-based ordering, limited-edition products and curated kits. Although the company has only been on the market for a handful of months, Acid League has already generated millions of dollars in revenue and closed on a $4.75 million capital round in April.   In an interview featured in this episode, Acid League co-founder and chief sales officer Cole Pearsall spoke about the genesis of the brand, how his background in food science and the diverse experience of his three co-founders spurred the company's development and how their collective vision is expressed in both the branding and innovation strategy. He also explained why trust was the key factor in winning over Whole Foods, the use of product as a form of marketing and how the company aligns its retail and ecommerce strategies. Show notes: 0:42: Interview: Cole Pearsall, Co-Founder/CSO, Acid League -- In a conversation recorded at Natural Products Expo East 2021, Pearsall spoke with Taste Radio editor Ray Latif about his home city of Toronto, the formulation and branding decisions behind Acid League's unique non-alcoholic wines and why he believes the transition from food science to CPG sales wasn't as difficult as one might think. Pearsall also  explained why the company debuted with vinegars, communicating product attributes to consumers who may be less familiar with their ingredients and why Whole Foods was swayed by the team's   experience. Later, he discussed the role of DTC in building awareness for the brand at retail, why “kitting” is key to Acid League's ecommerce strategy and the company's new pantry loading program. Brands in this episode: Acid League

On the cusp of Natural Products Expo East 2021, Taste Radio's hosts discussed ways that exhibitors can highlight their presence at the show as well as an updated look for BevNET.com, which features a new audio option for articles. They also chatted about several new and upstart products, including a canned cascara, mushroom jerky and cheese balls, along with a couple celebrity-backed tequila brands. Show notes: 0:34: Dentist Prattle, Dry Humor And Unwet Jerky -- A quick episode begins with Ray's pet peeve about dentists and John's recent visit to Hilton Head Island. Jacqui then spoke about BevNET and NOSH's booth guide for Expo East 2021 and John spoke about the steady flow of new canned cocktails and tequila brands co-owned by Adam Levine and Kendall Jenner. Later, Mike munched on some big candy bars and Ray riffed on lemon-flavored stroopwafels and took a first taste of a plant-based jerky. Brands in this episode: Alldae Cascara, The Good Crisp, Rip Van, Munchrooms Mushroom Jerky, Sail Away Coffee, Calirosa Tequila, 818 Tequila, Gigantic Bar, Chobani, Beyond Meat, CHKN

Twice a year, the NEXTY Award trophies are bestowed on those companies that demonstrate what's next for the natural products industry. New Hope Network recognizes the most innovative, inspirational and integrity-driven products in the natural products industry. The awards are connected to New Hope Network’s largest annual natural product expos: Natural Products Expo West in March and Natural Products Expo East in September. I share my favorites on today's microcost! See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Hemp and CBD continued to reign as one of the top food and beverage trends at Natural Products Expo East in Baltimore last week, just as they did at the event’s counterpart Expo West last March – but also just like at West they were far from the only noteworthy trend.

Hemp and CBD continued to reign as one of the top food and beverage trends at Natural Products Expo East in Baltimore last week, just as they did at the event’s counterpart Expo West last March – but also just like at West they were far from the only noteworthy trend.

Hemp and CBD continued to reign as one of the top food and beverage trends at Natural Products Expo East in Baltimore last week, just as they did at the event’s counterpart Expo West last March – but also just like at West they were far from the only noteworthy trend.

There’s an old saying that “leaders are born, not made.” That might be true, but even for the most innate leaders, wouldn’t it be helpful to learn from others’ experiences? Alan Murray thought so. As a young executive working for carton manufacturer Tetra Pak, Alan wrote a guide for people in similar roles about how to lead effectively and position themselves for success.  The guide has served as the foundation for Murray’s career; after a tenure as CEO of Tetra Pak North America, he is now the CEO of Next Foods, the maker of probiotic-infused food and beverage brand GoodBelly. In an interview included in this episode, Murray spoke about his approach to leadership, including how to manage people that might be smarter than you, and the three critical things that he believes all successful CEOs should master. Later, he discussed GoodBelly’s influence on the evolution of the probiotic food category, how the brand has refined its positioning and communication strategy and what elicited the company’s partnership with General Mills. Show notes:  2:51: Interview: Alan Murray, CEO, GoodBelly -- Murray sat down with Taste Radio editor Ray Latif at Natural Products Expo East 2019 for a conversation that began with his passion for surfing and the unusual way that he landed a job at Unilever. He also discussed how ambition and leverage played into his first CEO role at Tetra Pak, how observing others helped frame his own leadership style, and why sitting at the reception desk and hanging out by the coffee machine is key to understanding company dynamics. Later, he explained why it’s important to have a global perspective, what motivated him to join GoodBelly, how the company has honed in on its core consumers, why better food is critical to reducing health care costs, and why he believes that it’s incumbent upon consumers to ask doctors about healthy eating habits. Brands in this episode: GoodBelly, Silk, Whitewave Foods

TUNE IN TO LEARN:FOOD NEWS EPISODE IS ON THE AIR!The trendiest things at the Natural Products Expo East - should you really get all pumped about CBDs?Plant-based - junk food with a new package and a great marketing teamProtein bar basics for health: what to pay attention to choosing your protein barASK YOUR QUESTION GET MY 10-DAY EMAIL HEALTH COURSE. THE FOUNDATION SERIES. SUBSCRIBE! Created by Angela Shurina angela at createyourself.today Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/FoodSchool)

This week, we’re joined by Grant Gyesky, the co-founder and CEO of Rise Nitro Brewing Co., a fast-growing brand that has made waves in the emerging segment of nitro-infused coffee. Launched in 2015, Rise is known for its high-quality, organic nitro cold brew coffee and innovative line extensions, including citrus-infused coffee and oat milk lattes. The company has gradually expanded distribution beyond its home market in New York, and in May landed placement in over 2,000 Walmart stores across the U.S.  In an interview included in this episode, Gyesky spoke about the brand’s genesis and development, how he and his co-founders determined their roles in the company and the challenges of being a first time CEO. He also discussed how Rise considers innovation and distribution amid a rapidly growing coffee category, why first-time entrepreneurs often make better decisions than industry veterans, and why it’s critical to choose the right advisors. Show notes: 1:22: Expo East, Advice on Advisors, and Road Sodas -- On location at Natural Products Expo East 2019, the hosts riffed on the amount of CBD-infused products at the show, why modern CPG brands have a longer runway for success, and a booch brand’s brillant booth. They also discussed the importance of aligning with the right advisors and how a gas leak exposed Mike’s thieving ways. 14:24: Interview: Grant Gyesky, Co-Founder/CEO, Rise Nitro Brewing Co. -- Gyesky spoke with Taste Radio editor Ray Latif about the accidental creation of Rise, the reason for his tardy arrival to BevNET Live Summer 2017, and how the company elicited feedback about the brand via its cafe in New York City. He also explained why he was hesitant about taking on the role of CEO, the pressure to innovate, why Starbucks has been a boon for the brand, and why being a first-mover is often challenging. Later, he discussed how key retailers with locations outside of the company’s geographical focus were key to Rise’s growth, why entrepreneurs should be wary of letting advisors “feel that they can control the business,” investors’ differing views of the coffee category, and how he thinks about work-life balance.  Brands in this episode: Medterra, Humm Kombucha, Goldthread, Sunwink, Waku, Kaylee’s Culture, Rise Nitro Brewing Co., Starbucks

Melina Arcara, aka Gluten Free Bebe, shares some of her favorite products from Natural Products Expo East. You can find Melinda on Facebook and Instagram as well as speaking at Expos and sharing her book: 3 Steps to Gluten Free Living See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

I recap some of the highlights from Natural Products Expo East 2019. See more - including pictures and videos - at Baltimore Gluten Free on Facebook and Instagram. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Natural Products Expo East is kicking off in Baltimore this week. Follow me at Baltimore Gluten Free on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter as I share the best in food and beverage and supplement and beauty products from the show! See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Jon Sebastiani, the founder of Krave Jerky and Sonoma Brands, might want to invest in your company. Just make sure that you’re not chasing the latest hot trend. He’s really not into that. Sebastiani founded Sonoma Brands, a unique consumer product incubator and private equity firm, in 2015 following the sale of Krave Jerky to The Hershey Co. for $240 million. Earlier this year, Sonoma Brands launched a new $60 million fund and has in recent months deployed the capital to expand its holdings. The portfolio includes a mix of internally developed concepts, such as Smashmallow, Zupa Noma and Peckish, along with investments in high-growth brands like Guayaki, Dang Foods and, most recently, Vintage Wine Estates. In a conversation included in this episode, Sebastiani explained how Sonoma Brands eschews bleeding-edge concepts and trends in favor of opportunities to disrupt established categories through innovation and investment. “When you look at the line of products that we’ve created, including Krave, most of them aren’t highly complicated,” he said. “When you find that right sector or category and design a brand against it, it can become very obvious and generally we look at the size of the addressable market in a way to show true scalability. I don’t want to build a brand that can only live in natural/speciality [retailers].” Also, included in this episode: BevNET’s Ray Latif, Marty Caballero and Jon Landis discussed beverage-related news, trends and innovation in the convenience store channel as viewed at the recently completed 2018 NACS show. Show notes: 1:47: We’ve Got a Knack for NACS -- The hosts chat about news and new products in notable beverage categories, including coffee, bottled water, and kombucha, as seen through the lens of the 2018 NACS show, held Oct. 8-10 in Las Vegas. 14:41: Interview: Jon Sebastiani, Founder, Krave/Sonoma Brands -- In an interview recorded at Natural Products Expo East 2018, Sebastiani sat down with BevNET Managing Editor Ray Latif to discuss the business and investment strategy of Sonoma Brands, how the company’s portfolio is nurtured as a unit, how he’s promoting the Sonoma region as a hub for innovative brands and why he’s back in the wine business after vowing never to return. Brands in this episode: Forto Coffee, High Brew Coffee, Starbucks, La Colombe, Califia Farms, Coca-Cola, Far Coast Coffee, Illy Coffee, Dunkin, McCafe, SmartWater, Essentia, Core Hydration, San Pellegrino, Perrier, Topo Chico, Jarritos, Eternal Water, Qure Water, Sparkling Ice, Avitae, Water Joe, Nestle Waters, Brew Dr. Kombucha, Wonder Drink Kombucha, Koe Kombucha, GT’s Kombucha, Buchi, Peet’s, Revive Kombucha, KeVita, PepsiCo, White Castle, Impossible Foods, Krispy Kreme, Chester’s Chicken, Pixotine, Krave Jerky, Smashmallow, Zupa Noma, Jack Link’s, Oberto, Slim Jim, Chobani, Clif Bar, Peckish, Guayaki, Dang Foods, Hu Chocolate, Vintage Wine Estates

Matt McLean, founder and titular figure of organic beverage company Uncle Matt‘s, is fond of saying that orange juice is ounce-for-ounce the most nutritious beverage on the market. He might be a little biased; after all, orange juice is the brand’s flagship line. There are, however, a few qualifiers to his promotion of orange juice, notably organic sourcing and high quality standards, each of which are rooted in Uncle Matt’s business philosophy. “We want to be consistently great at everything we do,” he said in an interview included in this episode. “We don’t skimp. We don’t cut corners.” Listen to our conversation with McLean in which explains how the company’s commitment to premium sourcing and production has elicited a loyal following, particularly among natural channel consumers. He also discussed efforts to expand brand offerings and evolve its portfolio to reflect consumer interest in fast growing categories, including energy drinks and kombucha. Also in this episode: BevNET editor-in-chief Jeff Klineman offered insight and perspective into Keurig Dr Pepper’s (KDP) $525 million acquisition of Core Nutrition. Show notes: 1:59: Cann You Make This Conference? -- The hosts discussed BevNET and NOSH’s Cannabis Forum, a half-day session that will explore the emerging cannabis market and how it could impact food and beverages business. 11:45: Interview: Matt McLean, Founder, Uncle Matt’s --  BevNET’s Ray Latif sat down with McLean at Natural Products Expo East 2018, where he discussed the origins of Uncle Matt’s and why he launched the business, how the company cultivates consumer evangelists for the brand, the thought process for entering new beverage categories, and the decision to sell the company to Dean Foods last year. 31:35: Analysis: KDP Acquires Core for $525 Million -- BevNET’s Jeff Klineman breaks down the blockbuster deal, including the timing of the acquisition, why Core was attractive target for KDP, what it means for other KDP’s allied brands, and the impact on Essentia, which is rumored to be for sale. Brands in this episode: Regrained, Predator Endurance, Uncle Matt’s, Mountain Dew, Core Hydration, Fuze, BodyArmor, Fiji Water, Forto, Essentia

No matter what you’re hired to do at Health Warrior, your first assignment is always the same. The company, which makes plant-based snacks and foods, including a flagship line of chia bars, makes all of its new employees build their own desks, without any building materials or instructions. According to co-founder and CEO Shane Emmett, the DIY activity is designed to instill an entrepreneurial mindset from day one. “A start-up is hard,” Emmett said in an interview featured in this episode. “You have to do everything yourself. You have to build the systems while you’re growing the business. [Building your own desk] is a metaphor for the fact that no one’s going to do anything for you.” Since launching in 2011, Health Warrior has become one of fastest growing natural food companies in the U.S., built on a roll-up-your-sleeves approach that permeates every aspect of the company, including sampling events. In addition to desk-building, all employees, including executives, are asked to participate in sampling demos, which Emmett believes teaches them “more about the brand and product than doing anything else.” “You get to have hundreds of conversations with real people that don’t care that you used to be an investment banker… and will tell you exactly what they think of your product,” he said. Listen to our full-length interview with Emmett, who discussed his decision to leave behind a promising career in law and start a food brand, how the company has cultivated and enhanced its relationship with Amazon, why trusting your gut over syndicated data can lead to better decisions, and what he says has been the biggest surprise since the company was founded. Show notes: 1:23: Survey Says! -- Since launching the podcast in April 2016, we’ve heard from many listeners who’ve responded to our call for questions, comments and ideas for future episodes. Thank you to all who’ve reached out -- it’s been a tremendous help to us. And as Taste Radio continues to evolve, we’d like to ask for a little more assistance. We’ve created a short survey that asks listeners a little about themselves and their podcast listening habits. The results of the survey will help us better understand our audience and how to craft new and interesting content. Please take 2-3 minutes to complete it and once you do, you’ll be eligible to win a $25 gift card. 3:17: Interview: Shane Emmett, Co-Founder/CEO, Health Warrior -- In an interview recorded tat Natural Products Expo East 2018, Emmett explained how Health Warrior’s rapid rise was fueled by an early focus on direct-to-consumer sales, a media spotlight on ancient ingredients and serendipitous partnerships, including those with several NFL players and teams. He also discussed how the company’s relationship with its key retail partners, Amazon and Whole Foods has evolved, and how Health Warrior incorporates social mission into its business strategy. Brands in this episode: Health Warrior

It would be fair to say that things are going well for Country Archer. But it wasn’t always that way. A maker of clean-label meat snacks, the brand’s flagship jerky line is the fastest growing in its category among natural retailers, and the company recently announced $10 million in new funding from its primary investor, Monogram Capital. Nevertheless, not too long ago, Country Archer faced rejection in the very retail channel in which it’s now the fastest growing; in fact, it had been written off as a “convenience store” product. Yet, tenacity, innovation and a little bit of luck go a long way. We spoke with Country Archer co-founder and CEO Eugene Kang about the brand’s development and growth through those tough earlier days, and how it stayed competitive amid the craze for Krave Jerky. We also discussed the incredible story behind Country Archer’s partnership with iconic Sriracha brand Huy Fong Foods and how it became a gamechanger for the company. Also in this episode: a conversation with BevNET assistant editor Marty Caballero on beverage-related trends and innovation from the recently held Natural Products Expo East 2018. Show notes: 2:02: Back On Top -- The hosts discussed the creation and launch of Taste Radio Insider, a show specifically focused on news, trends and insights in the food and beverage industries. They also chat about recent visits to BevNET HQ, including representatives from Rocket Fuel, Smart Cups and BRWD. 15:20: Interview: Eugene Kang, Co-Founder/CEO, Country Archer -- In this interview, recorded at Natural Products Expo East 2018, Kang spoke with BevNET CMO Mike Schneider about the origins of Country Archer and why he wanted the brand to be the “Sam Adams of jerky,” how the company approached a competitive environment for jerky, particularly during the development of Krave, and how its partnership with Huy Fong Sriracha became a major turning point for the brand and helped it to break into the natural channel. 34:49: Beverage Trendspotting at Expo East 2018 -- BevNET’s Ray Latif and Marty Caballero hash out some of the most notable drink trends from the annual trade show, including an uptick in carbonated teas and coffee, the infusion of plant-based milk into cold-brew products and a relatively quiet show for kombucha. Brands in this episode: Rocket Fuel Coffee Milk, Smart Cups, BRWD Energy Drink, Jose Gourmet, Country Archer, Krave, Sound Tea, Teavana, Bhakti, Cham Cold Brew, La Colombe, Chameleon Cold-Brew, Rise Brewing Co., Koia, Remedy Organics, Brew Dr. Kombucha, Humm Kombucha

It may be hard to imagine, especially for millennials and Gen-Zers out there, but there was a time in the not-so-distant past when organic food, sustainable sourcing and fair trade were uncommon sights in the food and beverage industry. Yet, thanks to innovative entrepreneurs like Marci Zaroff, these concepts have now reached the mainstream. Zaroff has been at the forefront of progressive food and lifestyle trends for nearly three decades. She’s a serial entrepreneur who pioneered eco-friendly fashion wear and textiles with Under the Canopy and Metawear and is currently the CMO and co-founder of plant-based seafood brand Good Catch. In this episode, Zaroff spoke about the origins of her career and why she’s urging companies to incorporate ethical sourcing and sustainability into their brand strategies. “The products we’re creating are about no compromise,” Zaroff said. “The sustainability, the fair trade, the ethically made -- these are value adds. So that it’s not ‘why would you buy this, or why would you eat this, or why would you use this?’ It’s ‘why wouldn’t you?’ It’s about getting more, not giving something up. And I think that’s the big point of difference.” Listen to the full interview with Zaroff, in which she described entrepreneurship as a “perpetual yo-yo,” discussed the importance of vetting investors and shared her take on the budding business of cannabis. Show notes: 1:27: We’re Evolving! -- BevNET is proud to announce the launch of Taste Radio Insider, a show specifically focused on news, trends and insights in the business of food and beverage. We’ll continue to feature long-form interviews with the industry’s tastemakers and pioneers in our flagship Taste Radio podcast. Meanwhile, Taste Radio Insider will include interviews with the industry’s movers and shakers and feature discussion on emerging trends, innovation and news of the week from our regular cadre of hosts including John Craven, John Landis, Carol Ortenberg, and others on the BevNET team. We launch Taste Radio Insider on Friday, Sept. 28 and the show will be available for streaming and download on tasteradio.com, iTunes, Stitcher, Google Play and Soundcloud. 3:06: Interview: Marci Zaroff, Founder, MetaWear/Good Catch -- Since cutting her teeth in the food business nearly 30 years ago, Zaroff has played an influential role in the business of ethically sourced consumer products and food. In our interview, recorded at Natural Products Expo East 2018, she explained what it means to be a “post-modern organic” entrepreneur and takes us through the early years of her career from her work with The Institute for Integrative Nutrition to the launch of her first business, eco-friendly lifestyle brand Under The Canopy. She also discussed her decision to leave Under The Canopy and explained why it was “the most liberating and bittersweet day” of her life and what it taught her about vetting investors. Zaroff also discussed why embedding sustainability and organic sourcing into new CPG brands is “about not being left behind,” how to approach consumer education when pioneering a new business concept and offered her perspective on the future of cannabis-infused foods and beverages. Brands in this episode: Good Catch Foods

According to the Oxford English dictionary, a Renaissance man is defined as “a person with many talents or areas of knowledge.” It’s an apt description for Ben Branson, the founder and CEO of Seedlip, an innovative brand of non-alcoholic distilled spirits. A branding and design specialist by trade, Branson’s passion for botany, history and alchemy led him to distillation, a craft in which he’s become a self-taught expert. What began as a hobby has since transformed into Seedlip, a highly publicized and sought after brand that in just three years since launch is now carried by hundreds of the world’s top restaurants, bars and retailers in over 20 countries. In addressing the dilemma of “what to drink when you’re not drinking,” Seedlip is aiming to give mixologists a new tool to create unique and sophisticated non-alcoholic drinking experiences. In an interview included in this episode, Branson spoke about his vision for a non-alcoholic spirit and how he’s managed the rapid growth and development of Seedlip. Show notes: 2:36: Interview: Ben Branson, Founder/CEO, Seedlip -- In an interview recorded by weblink, Branson spoke with BevNET Managing Editor Ray Latif about the origins of Seedlip and how he identified an opportunity to innovate in the multi-billion dollar spirits industry. Branson discussed how he bridged the gap from a passion project to a brand, the story of how Seedlip's first sale led to an invite to Buckingham Palace, how the brand elicits trial and awareness through design and storytelling, Branson’s 10-second sales pitch for Seedlip, and what he drinks when he is drinking alcohol. 34:50: Expo-sure in Baltimore -- The hosts convene in the Taste Radio studio for a debrief on the recently held Natural Products Expo East 2018. They discuss the impact of Hurricane Florence on attendance at the annual event, exhibitor reaction to the show and notable food trends on display at Expo East, including a continued uptick in new jerky and dried fruit brands coming to market. Brands in this episode: Seedlip, Mother Kombucha, Tribucha, Country Archer, RIND Snacks, Sky Valley Foods, Lavva, Stryve, Ayoba-Yo, Brooklyn Biltong, Fishpeople, Peckish

Stop us when this sounds familiar: two young entrepreneurs have an idea for a disruptive food concept, but lack experience and need help -- with everything. In the case of Amanda Klane and Drew Harrington, who together launched frozen Greek yogurt brand Yasso while fresh out of college, identifying and aligning with the right partners meant building around their vision of success. “When we started the business, we were 23,” Klane said in an interview included in this episode of Taste Radio. “We clearly knew we didn’t know everything. It was ‘how do we find people that are smarter than us and can provide assistance and support, but also allow us to do what it is we love to do and grow the brand the way we want to?’” The strategy has paid dividends. Since its launch in 2009, Yasso, which is positioned as a healthier and low-calorie alternative to traditional ice cream brands, has become a bona fide star in the freezer aisle, racking up over $82 million in sales last year. As part of our interview, Klane and Harrington discussed the inspiration behind the brand, how they identified an opportunity to disrupt a legacy category, the importance of value-added financial partners, and why trash cans became a key part of the brand’s marketing strategy. Pizza and ice cream is, of course, a popular pairing. So to go with Yasso’s healthier take on the latter, how about a serving of Cali’Flour? The fast-growing brand sells vegetable-based, gluten-free frozen pizza crusts that are made with just four ingredients. Founded in 2015 by Amy Lacey, Cali’Flour has attracted a loyal following and established a thriving direct-to-consumer business. In a recent interview, Lacey spoke about staying ahead of a hot trend, how the brand incorporates consumer feedback into its R&D strategy, and why the company doesn’t make hero products. Show notes: 2:35: Elevation, Enlightenment, Expo -- The hosts discuss the migration of Elevator Talk to YouTube and Instagram TV, the release of BevNET Magazine’s July/August 2018 issue and cover story on the “31 of the most powerful women in the industry,” the upcoming Natural Products Expo East show, and a bevy of new and interesting products that arrived at the office over the past week. 14:26: Interview: Drew Harrington and Amanda Klane, Co-Founders/Co-CEOs, Yasso -- Harrington and Klane are the founders of Yasso, a popular ice cream brand that uses Greek yogurt as the base of its tasty treats. The childhood friends and co-CEOs recently sat down with Project NOSH editor Carol Ortenberg and BevNET CMO Mike Schneider, where they spoke about the brand’s ascendance, its innovation and marketing strategy and the keys to its partnership with majority investor Castanea Partners. 35:39: Interview: Amy Lacey, Founder/Owner, Cali'flour Foods -- Lacey sat down with BevNET CMO Mike Schneider at the 2018 Summer Fancy Food Show, where they spoke about the launch and development of Cali’Flour, which is promoted as the “Original Cauliflower Pizza Crust.” Lacey, who participated in the Pitch Slam competition at NOSH Live Summer 2017, discussed the brand’s origins, how it has attempted to separate itself from competing brands and why listening to its customers has been critical to its growth. Brands in this episode: Mother Kombucha, Up Mountain Switchel, Mother Beverage, Dirty Lemon, Mikey’s, Crispy Green, Yoplait, Red Bull, Yasso, Ben & Jerry’s, Annie’s, Nantucket Nectars, Halo Top, Enlightened, Arctic Zero, Cali’Flour

Joy Bauer believes snacking should be simple. Bauer, the nutrition and health expert for NBC’s “Today” show and founder of granola bites company Nourish Snacks, is concerned that an ever-increasing number of product certifications and overwrought marketing callouts are confusing consumers. In an interview included in this week’s episode of Taste Radio, Bauer stated her belief that most consumers simply want clean labels, easily understood ingredients and delicious flavors, a perspective that inspired her to launch Nourish Snacks. As part of our conversation, Bauer also shared her opinion on what makes for a sustainable food trend versus a passing fad, and discussed the impact that CPG conglomerates are having in the evolving market for snacks. Also in this episode: An interview with Gus Griffin, the CEO of MGP ingredients, a leading producer of premium distilled spirits that has played a critical role in the emergence and development of the craft spirits segment. And in the latest edition of Elevator Talk, we chat with Marcel Gozali, the founder of Avonut, a brand of ready-to-drink, cold-pressed avocado coconut smoothies. Show notes: 1:14: SoCal Sojourn -- Last week Taste Radio hosts John Craven and Mike Schneider traveled to Los Angeles for a few days of podcasting and video work, meeting up with entrepreneurs and executives from across the food and beverage spectrum. Craven and Schneider shared memorable moments and meetings from their trip, including visits to the offices of GT’s Living Foods, Bulletproof Labs, SnackNation and Califia Farms. 11:41: Interview -- Joy Bauer, Founder, Nourish Snacks: In our conversation with Bauer, recorded at Natural Products Expo East 2017, she explained her belief in creating nutritious, decadent snacks that don’t “feel like a gyp” to consumers. She also discussed how brands can align themselves with current nutritional trends without sacrificing the future and called conglomerates’ efforts to reformulate legacy products “a valiant effort.” 30:31: Interview -- Gus Griffin, CEO, MGP Ingredients: MGP is a leading producer of premium distilled spirits with a long history of supplying companies large and small with high-quality bourbon, gin and vodka. MGP is particularly known for its prowess as a distiller of rye whiskey and recently launched its own branded portfolio, which includes George Remus Bourbon and Till Vodka. We spoke with CEO Gus Griffin about the new venture as well as MGP's role in the emergence and development of the craft spirits segment. 49:36: Elevator Talk -- Marcel Gozali is the founder of Avonut, brand of ready-to-drink, cold-pressed avocado coconut smoothies. We met Gozali at Natural Expo East 2017 and got the goods on his innovative products and what’s next for the brand. Brands in the episode: GT’s Kombucha, Califia Farms, Nourish Snacks, George Remus Bourbon, Till Vodka, Avonut For sponsorship opportunities, feedback and suggestions, contact podcast@bevnet.com.

Episode 78 of BevNET’s Taste Radio podcast features a conversation with Chris Hunter, the co-founder of plant-based protein drink brand Koia and a co-founder of Phusion Projects, the Chicago-based alcoholic beverage company best known as the maker of Four Loko. In our interview, recorded at Natural Products Expo East 2017, Hunter discussed the remarkable rise (and notorious reputation) of Four Loko and why a focus on branding and merchandising was key to its success. Hunter also explained his belief that the natural food and beverage industry is “the most exciting space out there,” his role in reframing and positioning Koia as a brand first and foremost, and why entrepreneurs should look to align themselves with experienced, value-added investors and advisors. Also included in this episode: A discussion with Project NOSH senior staff reporter Meagan McGinnes about the FDA’s new guidance regarding peanut allergies and how food brands are reacting, innovating and commercializing. We chat with the folks behind Shackleton Whisky, a brand inspired by famed explorer Sir Ernest Shackleton. And in the latest edition of Elevator Talk, we caught up with Safir Jamal, the CMO of 1 Shot Protein, a brand of shots that contain 24g of clean protein per 3 oz. bottle. Show notes: 1:11 -- Reminders, Upcoming Deadlines -- Early registration is ending for NOSH Live and Brewbound Session. The room block is almost halfway full for BevNET Live. Sponsorship opportunities for the events are still available, including the Taste Radio gold package. BevNET’s new Media Kit is now available. Learn more about advertising with BevNET, Project NOSH and Brewbound and Taste Radio. 3:48 -- Pumpkin Spice Life -- ‘Tis the season for everything pumpkin spice. What started with lattes and cookies has become a phenomenon in which entire endcaps and aisles are dedicated to pumpkin spice products. Have we reached a saturation point with the flavor? The hosts discuss. 9:04 -- Interview: Chris Hunter, Founder/CEO Koia; Co-Founder, Phusion Projects -- In our interview with Hunter we discussed his background in the beverage business, navigating both the phenomenal success and intense public scrutiny of Four Loko, why he segued into the non-alcoholic beverages with Koia and how he sees the plant-based protein drink category evolving in the coming years. 29:18 -- Trendspotter: The FDA Wants More Kids Eating Peanuts -- Last month FDA Commissioner Scott Gottlieb released a statement regarding a new qualified health claim that early introduction of peanuts to certain high-risk infants may reduce risk of peanut allergy. We discussed the growing crises around peanut allergies, the FDA’s decision to issue the statement and opportunities for kids’ brands to leverage the new guidance in marketing and innovation strategies. 43:55 -- Interview -- Tim Jarvis and Jason Moore, Shackleton Whisky -- Scottish spirits company Whyte and Mackay recently announced the launch of Shackleton Whiskey, a brand inspired by famed explorer Sir Ernest Shackleton, who’s known for leading a series of British explorations to the Antarctic. We recently spoke with Tim Jarvis, an environmental explorer and global brand ambassador for Shackleton Whisky, who in 2013 led an authentic retracing of Shackleton’s journey, and Whyte & Mackay Single Malt Specialist Jason Moore about the new whisky and their role in its creation and launch on the market. 52:05 -- Elevator Talk: 1 Shot Protein is a brand of shots that contain 24g of clean protein per 3 oz. bottle. We recently caught up with the company’s CMO, Safir Jamal, who visited us at BevNET HQ. Brands in this episode: Koia, Four Loko, Not Your Father’s, Shackleton Whiskey, Hello Peanut, MyPeanut, 1 Shot Protein. For sponsorship opportunities, feedback and suggestions, contact podcast@bevnet.com.

This week's episode highlights news and trends in the plant-based food industry based on what I saw at this year's Natural Products Expo East, recently held in Baltimore. I identify the following 3 trends as the hottest new ones to keep an eye on:   1. The evolution of dairy-free products 2. The demand for clean, whole ingredients in plant-based proteins 3. The emergence of functional snacks and beverages   This episode also features commentary from representatives of the following brands: Califia Farms, Field Roast, Follow Your Heart, Good Catch Foods, Good Seed Burger, Kite Hill, Milkidamia, Miyoko's Kitchen, Navitas, No Bull Burger, No Evil Foods, REBBL, Sweet Earth Foods, Teaonic, Uptons Naturals, Vegan Rob's, and Veggemo. To learn more about the latest and greatest products and how brands are stepping up their game, you'll have to listen in! Show notes for this episode: https://eftp.co/bite-sized-news Learn how Eat For The Planet can help your brand: https://eftp.co/services Twitter: @nilzach

Episode 76 of BevNET’s Taste Radio podcast spotlights a wide-ranging conversation with Spindrift founder and CEO Bill Creelman. Recorded at Spindrift headquarters in Waltham, Mass., Creelman waxed about cutting his teeth in the beverage business and the launch, development and sale of his first company, Stirrings, a maker of premium cocktail mixers. He also discussed how the origins of Spindrift, a fast-growing brand of fruit-infused sparkling water, continue to play a critical role in the brand's evolution and remarkable growth, why the brand is pursuing a “craft” identity in the sparkling water category, and how the company has taken a careful approach to retail partnerships and investment. Also included in this episode: BevNET staff reporter Brad Avery and senior brand specialist Jon Landis examine the emergence of MCT oil. The pair discussed MCT’s purported functional benefits, why a growing number of food and beverage brands are infusing the ingredient into new products and how it’s being marketed to consumers. And this week’s edition of Elevator Talk, we chat with James Fayel, the founder and CEO of Zest Tea, a brand of high caffeine teas. This episode is presented by Algarithm Ingredients. Show Notes: 1:07: Chicken Chips FTW -- The hosts chat about the most interesting and innovative products that they saw at Natural Products Expo East 2017. Jon Landis talks about Wilde’s Chicken Chips and Vermont Village drinking vinegar shots; John Craven praises Forager’s Good Plant Fat Yogurt, Ithaca Cold-Crafted Hummus and 4th and Heart’s snackable butter; Ray lauds Harney & Sons’ new Nitro Tea line; Mike Schneider gives a thumbs up to Repurposed Pod’s Cacao Juice. 9:06: Interview: Bill Creelman, Founder/CEO, Spindrift -- Creelman shares his background as a beverage entrepreneur, breaking into the business with cocktail mixer brand Stirrings, the launch and evolution of Spindrift and the brand’s pivot from craft soda to sparkling water. 47:48: Why is MCT Oil “a Thing” -- Jon Landis and Brad Avery discuss MCT Oil, including how it’s sourced, efficacy claims and the ingredient’s place within the healthy fat trend. 1:01:14: Elevator Talk -- Zest Tea is a brand of high caffeine teas designed for mental clarity and energy. We caught up with founder and CEO James Fayel at BevNET Live Summer 2017 and he shared some insight into the brand and its innovation pipeline. Brands in this episode: Wilde, Vermont Village, Harney & Sons, Forager, Ithaca Cold Crafted, 4th and Heart, Repurposed Pod, Stirrings, Spindrift, LaCroix, Polar, Bulletproof, Zest Tea For sponsorship opportunities, feedback and suggestions, contact podcast@bevnet.com.

Natural Products Expo East 2016 opens next week, and this edition of the podcast offers our take on how exhibitors and attendees can make the most of the event.

Phoebe shares a few of her favorite bites from the Natural Products Expo East. These two eat their way through Lancaster made salsa to healthy sweets. Listen in to hear about new products in the market. Visit the blog post's show notes to find product links.

Phoebe shares a few of her favorite bites from the Natural Products Expo East. These two eat their way through Lancaster made salsa to healthy sweets. Listen in to hear about new products in the market. Visit the blog post's show notes to find product links.

Phoebe shares a few of her favorite bites from the Natural Products Expo East. These two eat their way through Lancaster made salsa to healthy sweets. Listen in to hear about new products in the market. Visit the blog post's show notes to find product links.

Episode 67 “Gluten-Free and Healthy” Features: Eating gluten-free and maintaining good health  Vanessa’s weight loss & Maureen’s 10k training Fortified gluten-free products? Natural Products Expo East – Vanessa’s fav products:  Tonya’s Gluten-Free Kitchen, Healthy Pantry,Ginny Bakes, Nantucket Pasta Goddess Shut the Front Door!  Bacon Shortage?! Doh! Twinkies apparently DON’T last 20 years in a trunk. What do YOU think of the HTG Podcast? Leave your feedback wherever you download this. Read the blog. Listen to the podcast. Educate yourself. Rock on Celiacs! Visit the site for more - http://HoldTheGluten.net

The latest episode of Hold The Gluten Podcast is now live! Episode 37 “Gluten Free Food Fanatics ” Features: Dr. Fasano says we’re too clean and that’s why the incidence of celiac is going up. New study looking at growth in gluten-free market. Natural Products Expo East where there are more than 200 gluten-free companies exhibiting this year! California Pizza Kitchen pulls gluten free pizza from menu Gorton’s Seafood offers gluten free grilled fish options Maureen’s experience with Macaroni Grill’s gluten free menu What do YOU think of the HTG Podcast? Leave your feedback wherever you download this podcast! Read the blog. Listen to the podcast. Educate yourself. Rock on Celiacs! Visit the site at http://holdthegluten.net

Gluten-free expert, author, coach and advocate Jules Shepard hosts a weekly show offering news, interviews with intriguing guests, gluten-free baking tips and otherwise lively conversation. Last week, John Forberger -- gluten-free triathlete & co-founder of 1in133.org -- joined Jules to talk about the FDA Gluten-Free Labeling comment period coming to an end, the World's Tallest Gluten-Free Cake Event, what's next for 1in133.org, picking favorite new gluten-free products from Natural Products Expo East, and to chat about gluten-free nutrition for athletes ... but we never got to all these topics! So, John will be coming back this week to talk favorite new gluten-free products from Expo East, the paleo diet and eating gluten-free for athletes! Post your questions for Jules and John here, or call-in Thursday night at 7pm ET to get your gluten-free questions answered!   

Gluten-free expert, author, coach and advocate Jules Shepard hosts a weekly show offering news, interviews with intriguing guests, gluten-free baking tips and otherwise lively conversation. This week, gluten-free triathlete and celiac advocate/co-founder of 1in133.org, John Forberger, joins Jules to talk about the FDA Gluten-Free Labeling comment period coming to an end, to recap the World's Tallest Gluten-Free Cake Event, to pick favorite new gluten-free products from Natural Products Expo East, and to chat about gluten-free nutrition for athletes. John's rare experiences training and winning triathlons while living a gluten-free lifestyle have put him in a place to assist others with meeting their health and fitness goals. By day, John is a brand crafter as the Communications Group Account Manager at Oxford Communications. (You can follow him at @GlutenFreeTri on Twitter). Call in with your questions on the FDA's October 3 deadline for comments on the new GF labeling regulations, or other gluten-free lifestyle or product questions for Jules & John!