The landscape of publicly traded food companies is constantly evolving, with consumer preferences, technological advancement and global challenges all playing a role in shaping the industry. In 2024, these factors have culminated in a diverse and competitive market where the largest publicly traded food companies dominate. In this episode of the Xtalks Food Podcast, Sydney talks about the top 10 largest publicly traded food companies by market capitalization (cap). The list includes the likes of The Kraft Heinz Company, DoorDash Inc., Chipotle Mexican Grill Inc., Mondelez International Inc., McDonald's Corporation and Nestlé S.A. The largest publicly traded food companies in 2024 are not just leaders in revenue; they are also at the forefront of innovation and sustainability. As the global food industry continues to evolve, these companies are well-positioned to meet the challenges and opportunities of the future. Also in this episode, Sydney talks about a recent study that revealed many baby foods contain excessive amounts of sugar and salt, coupled with misleading marketing claims. The study examined 651 baby food products from ten major US supermarkets, focusing on foods marketed for children aged six to 36 months. Shockingly, 60 percent of these products did not meet the World Health Organization’s (WHO) nutritional guidelines for infant and toddler foods. Even more concerning, nearly all the products featured marketing claims that are discouraged by the WHO, such as “organic” or “non-GMO,” which may mislead parents into thinking these products are more nutritious than they actually are. The study also revealed that 44 percent of baby and toddler foods exceeded the WHO’s recommended levels of total sugars.Read the full article here:Top 10 Largest Publicly Traded Food Companies in 2024 by Market Capitalization:https://xtalks.com/top-10-largest-publicly-traded-food-companies-in-2024-by-market-capitalization-3773/ Supermarket Baby Food: A Look at Misleading Claims and Nutritional Concerns:https://xtalks.com/supermarket-baby-food-a-look-at-misleading-claims-and-nutritional-concerns-3776/For more food and beverage industry content, visit the Xtalks Vitals homepage. https://xtalks.com/vitals/Follow Us on Social Media  Twitter: https://twitter.com/XtalksFoodInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/xtalks/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Xtalks.Webinars/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/xtalks-webconferencesYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/XtalksWebinars/featured

Coca-Cola and OREO have joined forces in a new partnership that’s sure to excite fans of both brands. For a limited time, the Coca-Cola and OREO collab introduces two unique products: Oreo Coca-Cola Sandwich Cookies and Coca-Cola OREO Zero Sugar Limited Edition soda. In this episode of the Xtalks Food Podcast, Sydney talks about the new collab, dubbed “Besties,” whose products will be available in grocery stores and convenience stores across participating markets, including the US, Canada, China and Mexico, starting in September. Collaborations between companies, like the Coca-Cola and OREO collab, are often driven by the desire to combine strengths and create something fresh and exciting that appeals to both brands’ audiences. These partnerships allow companies to tap into each other’s customer bases, introducing their products to new demographics. Also in this episode, Sydney talks about the recent call for a federal ban on price gouging by Vice President Kamala Harris, which has ignited a significant debate within the food industry and among economists. Price gouging refers to the practice of raising prices on essential goods to an exorbitant level, often during emergencies. Harris’ proposal aims to curb this practice at the national level, but industry groups are wary. Both The Meat Institute and the National Chicken Council argue that a federal ban doesn’t address the underlying causes of inflation, such as rising production costs. Currently, 38 states have price gouging laws. Harris’ proposed federal ban would primarily affect large corporations, potentially offering the federal government greater power to regulate pricing during crises.Read the full article here:Coca-Cola and OREO Collab: A Sweet and Fizzy Pairing:https://xtalks.com/coca-cola-and-oreo-collab-a-sweet-and-fizzy-pairing-3770/ What Is Price Gouging? Harris’ Proposed Ban Sparks Debate:https://xtalks.com/what-is-price-gouging-harris-proposed-ban-sparks-debate-3771/For more food and beverage industry content, visit the Xtalks Vitals homepage. https://xtalks.com/vitals/Follow Us on Social Media  Twitter: https://twitter.com/XtalksFoodInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/xtalks/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Xtalks.Webinars/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/xtalks-webconferencesYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/XtalksWebinars/featured

The presence of lead in food remains a critical concern for the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Lead, a toxic metal, can enter the food supply through environmental contamination during the growing, raising or processing of foods. In this episode of the Xtalks Food Podcast, Sydney talks about how lead contamination in food can arise and what the FDA is doing to monitor lead levels. Food manufacturers bear significant responsibility under US law to minimize or eliminate chemical hazards, including lead, from their products. The FDA’s regulatory framework, including action levels and compliance policy guides, provides clear directives for the industry. The FDA’s approach extends beyond regulation enforcement to include collaboration with industry and other stakeholders. The team wonders why lead was previously used in plumbing and paint and learns about lead’s name on the periodic table. Also in this episode, Sydney talks about Mars’ recent acquisition of Kellanova in a $36 billion deal. This acquisition marks one of the most significant transactions in the food industry this year, expanding Mars’s reach into the snack and cereal markets. Mars, known for its iconic brands like M&M’s and Snickers, has agreed to purchase Kellanova for $83.50 per share in an all-cash transaction. Kellanova, which was formed in 2023 after Kellogg’s separation of its breakfast cereals and snacks businesses, brings well-known brands such as Cheez-It, Rice Krispies Treats and Eggo waffles to Mars’s portfolio. Mars, one of the largest family-owned businesses globally, boasts annual sales exceeding $50 billion and employs over 150,000 people. The team wonders whether Kellanova’s branding or product formulations will change.Read the full article here:Lead in Food: Regulatory Imperatives and Industry Responsibilities:https://xtalks.com/lead-in-food-regulatory-imperatives-and-industry-responsibilities-3763/ Mars Acquires Kellanova in $36 Billion Deal:https://xtalks.com/mars-acquires-kellanova-in-36-billion-deal-3768/For more food and beverage industry content, visit the Xtalks Vitals homepage. https://xtalks.com/vitals/Follow Us on Social Media  Twitter: https://twitter.com/XtalksFoodInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/xtalks/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Xtalks.Webinars/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/xtalks-webconferencesYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/XtalksWebinars/featured

Macroplastics and microplastics are growing concerns within the food industry. These tiny particles, primarily from environmental contamination, can infiltrate the food supply. In this episode of the Xtalks Food Podcast, Sydney talks about how microplastics and nanoplastics primarily contaminate food through environmental exposure where crops and livestock are raised. Despite concerns, current evidence does not show significant migration of these particles from plastic food packaging into foods and beverages. Additionally, no current evidence suggests that the levels found in foods such as seafood, salt and bottled water pose a danger to human health. However, without standardized methods for detecting and quantifying microplastics, assessing their true impact remains challenging. Also in this episode, Sydney talks about track and trace platforms, which are essential in the food and beverage industry. These systems are designed to monitor the journey of products from origin to consumption. They enhance the ability to trace the history, location and application of items, which is vital for quality control and regulatory compliance. Track and trace platforms in the food industry are digital systems that log detailed information about every stage of a product’s lifecycle. Food and beverage companies implement them to ensure regulatory compliance, improve quality control and assurance, enhance transparency and enhance operational efficiencies. Sydney also gives examples of some prominent track and trace platforms in the food and beverage industry.Read the full article here:Macroplastics and Microplastics in Food: Implications for the Food Industry:https://xtalks.com/macroplastics-and-microplastics-in-food-implications-for-the-food-industry-3742/ How Track and Trace Platforms Influence the Food and Beverage Industry:https://xtalks.com/how-track-and-trace-platforms-influence-the-food-and-beverage-industry-3739/For more food and beverage industry content, visit the Xtalks Vitals homepage. https://xtalks.com/vitals/Follow Us on Social Media  Twitter: https://twitter.com/XtalksFoodInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/xtalks/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Xtalks.Webinars/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/xtalks-webconferencesYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/XtalksWebinars/featured

This episode of the Xtalks Food Podcast features an interview with Angie Westbrock, CEO of Standard AI, which is at the forefront of applying artificial intelligence and computer vision to physical retail spaces. Angie starts off by elaborating on how Standard AI is leveraging real-time shopper data to create personalized in-store promotions and ads. She talks about how AI helps to predict and manage out-of-stock items as well as enhance loss prevention. Angie explains how food retailers can integrate Standard AI’s technology with their existing systems and reflects on the COVID-19 pandemic’s effect on the food retail industry. She ends by discussing how AI can contribute to more sustainable practices in food retail.   Read the related article here:   AI In the Food Industry: Is ChatGPT the Next Big Trend?: https://xtalks.com/ai-in-the-food-industry-is-chatgpt-the-next-big-trend-3401/   For more food and beverage industry content, visit the Xtalks Vitals homepage. https://xtalks.com/vitals/ Follow Us on Social Media  Twitter: https://twitter.com/XtalksFoodInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/xtalks/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Xtalks.Webinars/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/xtalks-webconferencesYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/XtalksWebinars/featured

The food industry is slowly moving away from chemical preservatives, like nitrites in meats, due to health concerns. This has prompted researchers in Spain and the US to explore yeast and nitric oxide (NO), respectively, as natural preservatives to extend meat shelf life. In this episode of the Xtalks Food Podcast, Sydney talks about the potential health risks of nitrites and discusses two nitrite alternatives: yeast and NO. Scientists in Spain and the US are pioneering these alternatives to chemical preservatives in meat, which could revolutionize how the meat industry extends meat shelf life and ensures food safety. The team wonders how these nitrite alternatives could impact the taste of meat but commends these scientists for studying substitutes. Also in this episode, Sydney talks about the history of the Nutrition Facts label, a staple on nearly every packaged food product in the US since 1994. Introduced to enhance consumer transparency, this label has evolved into a model for various industries, promoting socially responsible markets through intuitive information dissemination. The Nutrition Facts label has undergone several updates to align with changing public health priorities. The label has been updated to address concerns such as saturated fat and cholesterol in the 1980s and added sugars in the 2010s. The team wonders whether there have been any controversies or lawsuits related to the Nutrition Facts label.Read the full article here:Extending Meat Shelf Life: Scientists Innovate Nitrite Alternatives:https://xtalks.com/extending-meat-shelf-life-scientists-innovate-nitrite-alternatives-3724/ What Is Daily Value? A Comprehensive Insight into the Nutrition Facts Label:https://xtalks.com/what-is-daily-value-a-comprehensive-insight-into-the-nutrition-facts-label-3727/For more food and beverage industry content, visit the Xtalks Vitals homepage. https://xtalks.com/vitals/Follow Us on Social Media  Twitter: https://twitter.com/XtalksFoodInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/xtalks/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Xtalks.Webinars/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/xtalks-webconferencesYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/XtalksWebinars/featured

This episode of the Xtalks Food Podcast features an interview with with Danny O’Malley, founder of Before the Butcher, an award-winning producer of plant-based proteins for both retail and food service customers. Danny begins by talking about his career in the food industry, from his days at Beyond Meat to founding Before the Butcher. He points out that when it comes to plant-based foods, consumers are more focused on ingredients rather than whole meals. Danny talks about keeping costs on par with traditional meat while saving land, water and animals. He also discusses his approach to building and maintaining B2B partnerships as well as some unique supply chain issues Before the Butcher faced during the COVID-19 pandemic. He ends by sharing his goal for Before the Butcher in the ever-evolving plant-based industry. Read the related article here: Will Plant-Based Meat Prices Ever Be Lower Than Real Meat?: https://xtalks.com/will-plant-based-meat-prices-ever-be-lower-than-real-meat-2783/ For more food and beverage industry content, visit the Xtalks Vitals homepage. https://xtalks.com/vitals/   Follow Us on Social Media Twitter: https://twitter.com/XtalksFood Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/xtalks/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Xtalks.Webinars/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/xtalks-webconferences YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/XtalksWebinars/featured 

This episode of the Xtalks Food Podcast features an interview with with Matt Brown, CEO of Wherefour, a cloud-based ERP (enterprise resource planning) platform that helps food and beverage companies, large and small, solve production and compliance issues. Matt discusses his background and what led him to lead Wherefour. He talks about why ERP platforms are crucial for early-stage food and beverage startups and advises when startups should transition to this technology. Matt also explains how an ERP platform can help solve production and compliance headaches and shares some misconceptions about ERP systems. Lastly, he gives to startups that may be hesitant about investing in an ERP platform due to cost concerns.   Read the related article here: 2024 Food Industry Trends: Navigating the Future of Tech, Sustainability and Nutrition: https://xtalks.com/2024-food-industry-trends-navigating-the-future-of-tech-sustainability-and-nutrition-3637/   For more food and beverage industry content, visit the Xtalks Vitals homepage. https://xtalks.com/vitals/  Follow Us on Social Media  Twitter: https://twitter.com/XtalksFood Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/xtalks/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Xtalks.Webinars/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/xtalks-webconferencesYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/XtalksWebinars/featured

The European Union (EU) recently introduced a ban on eight artificial smoke flavorings used in various food products. This move is part of an effort to protect public health from potential cancer risks associated with these additives. In this episode of the Xtalks Food Podcast, Sydney talks about the ban, which was endorsed by member states in April 2024 following scientific research indicating harmful chemicals in smoke flavorings. The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) found that smoky flavorings can contain harmful chemicals formed during the smoking process. These chemicals, found in both natural and artificial smoke flavorings, have been linked to an increased risk of cancer. While some companies believe the ban will cause economic harm, others are embracing it as an opportunity to reformulate. The team wonders whether the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) will take note of this ban and implement similar regulations in the US. Also in this episode, Sydney talks about various sugar reduction technologies that meet consumer demands for healthier food and beverages. Consumers are becoming more health-conscious, driven by a desire to avoid the negative health impacts associated with high sugar consumption, such as obesity and diabetes. As a result, food manufacturers are under pressure to find effective sugar reduction solutions to meet this demand. Brands that can successfully reduce sugar in their products without compromising on taste are gaining a competitive edge in the market. Several companies, both large and small, are making strides in the field of sugar reduction solutions, including Better Juice, Ingredion, DouxMatok, SweeGen and Tate & Lyle. The team discusses the potential of reduced sugar crops and the perception around low-sugar foods.Read the full article here:Artificial Smoke Flavoring in Food: EU Ban and Industry Impact:https://xtalks.com/artificial-smoke-flavoring-in-food-eu-ban-and-industry-impact-3898/ Sugar Reduction Solutions: Meeting the Demand for Healthier Food and Beverages:https://xtalks.com/sugar-reduction-solutions-meeting-the-demand-for-healthier-food-and-beverages-3904/For more food and beverage industry content, visit the Xtalks Vitals homepage. https://xtalks.com/vitals/Follow Us on Social Media  Twitter: https://twitter.com/XtalksFoodInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/xtalks/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Xtalks.Webinars/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/xtalks-webconferencesYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/XtalksWebinars/featured

Nestlé Health Science recently introduced an innovative platform, GLP-1 Nutrition. The newly launched website is designed to provide comprehensive nutritional support for individuals on their weight management journey, including those using glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) medications. In this episode of the Xtalks Food Podcast, Sydney talks about the platform, which serves as a comprehensive hub for individuals on a weight management journey. The website offers a wealth of resources, including nutrition information and a wide range of product options designed to support the unique needs of these individuals. In addition to its products, Nestlé’s GLP-1 nutrition platform offers expert nutrition insights and a community platform where individuals can share their experiences and support each other on their health journey. The website also provides personalized diet, lifestyle and supplement advice through its Nutrition Coach feature. The team commends Nestlé for embracing the GLP-1 phenomenon rather than fearing it. Also in this episode, Sydney talks about food initial public offerings (IPOs) in 2024. The financial market’s volatility and shifting consumer spending habits have contributed to the lack of food IPOs. Investors remain cautious and companies are wary of uncertain economic conditions. Despite these challenges, three notable companies have debuted on the stock market. The first is BBB Foods, Inc., which operates a chain of grocery retail stores across Mexico through its subsidiaries. The second is Ibotta, Inc., which started as a mobile app offering cash back on everyday purchases and has since expanded its platform to include a wide variety of grocery items. The third is Super Hi International Holding Ltd., a key player in the Asian dining segment known for its chain of hot pot restaurants. Sydney also talks about the food IPOs of last year and discusses the landscape of food IPOs this year. The team notices a trend among these IPOs: they are all players in either the grocery or restaurant segments. Read the full article here:GLP-1 Nutrition: Nestlé Health Science Launches New Platform:https://xtalks.com/glp-1-nutrition-nestle-health-science-launches-new-platform-3905/ Food IPOs 2024: A Look at the Companies that Have Gone Public This Year:https://xtalks.com/food-ipos-2024-a-look-at-the-companies-that-have-gone-public-this-year-3909/For more food and beverage industry content, visit the Xtalks Vitals homepage. https://xtalks.com/vitals/Follow Us on Social Media  Twitter: https://twitter.com/XtalksFoodInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/xtalks/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Xtalks.Webinars/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/xtalks-webconferencesYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/XtalksWebinars/featured

This episode of the Xtalks Food Podcast features an interview with with Sheelagh Daly, the Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) manager at Enterprise Ireland, the government organization responsible for the development and growth of Irish enterprises in world markets. Sheelagh begins by talking about her role as FDI manager and discusses some of the latest innovation trends within Ireland’s food industry. These include both Ireland-specific and global food industry trends like tech, AI and sustainability. She offers insights into the types of incentives Ireland offers to foreign investors in the food industry and some of the partnerships that exist between Irish food companies and international investors. Sheelagh also talks about how Irish food companies use FDI to expand their presence in international markets. Read the full article here:Guinness Launches a Non-Alcoholic Version of its Popular Stout: https://xtalks.com/guinness-launches-a-non-alcoholic-version-of-its-popular-stout-2475/For more food and beverage industry content, visit the Xtalks Vitals homepage.Follow Us on Social Media Twitter: https://twitter.com/XtalksFoodInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/xtalks/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Xtalks.Webinars/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/xtalks-webconferences YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/XtalksWebinars/featured

Eating a healthy, balanced diet is no longer just about getting the right mix of vitamins, minerals, carbohydrates, protein and fat. Now, it’s also about balancing one’s needs with the needs of the planet. In this episode of the Xtalks Food Podcast, Sydney talks about the top 10 best foods for the environment, which boast low carbon footprints, support biodiversity and offer substantial nutritional benefits. Integrating these foods into one’s diet is a practical way to contribute to a healthier planet while nourishing one’s body. The list includes categories like pulses, leafy greens, locally grown fruits and cereals and grains as well as mushrooms, seaweed, mussels, grass-fed beef, oats and figs. These foods provide essential nutrients while having minimal environmental impact. The team is surprised by a number of foods on the list, including mushrooms, mussels and grass-fed beef. Also in this episode, Sydney talks about The US Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) new requirement for prepackaged foods in the US. This rule would mandate front-of-package nutrition labeling, which would display key nutrient information on the front of the packaging, in addition to the existing nutrition label on the back. In the US, advocates have long lobbied the FDA for front-of-package labels, claiming they help consumers make healthier choices and encourage food manufacturers to reformulate their products. Opposers argue that mandatory interpretive front-of-package nutrition labeling designs could cause unnecessary fear among consumers without providing meaningful context on how a food item fits into a healthy diet. The team discusses which design would be most effective and wonders whether this rule would promote healthier choices.  Read the full article here: Top 10 Best Foods For the Environment:https://xtalks.com/top-10-best-foods-for-the-environment-3883/ Front-of-Package Nutrition Labeling: What the Food Industry Needs to Know:https://xtalks.com/front-of-package-nutrition-labeling-what-the-food-industry-needs-to-know-3894/ For more food and beverage industry content, visit the Xtalks Vitals homepage. https://xtalks.com/vitals/  Follow Us on Social Media Twitter: https://twitter.com/XtalksFood Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/xtalks/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Xtalks.Webinars/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/xtalks-webconferences YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/XtalksWebinars/featured

The market for hemp beverages has been growing rapidly in recent years. The passing of the 2018 Farm Bill, which legalized hemp production, boosted the market, allowing companies to explore hemp as a primary ingredient. In this episode of the Xtalks Food Podcast, Sydney talks about the hemp beverage market, which has seen a steady influx of new products, including hemp-infused teas, sparkling waters and protein shakes. The regulatory landscape for hemp in the US is complex and continually evolving and the legalization of hemp did not mean a free-for-all. The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) plays a crucial role in regulating hemp products, particularly those intended for consumption. The FDA’s stance has been cautious, focusing on ensuring that hemp beverages and other products are safe for consumers. Companies must navigate stringent guidelines regarding labeling, health claims and quality control. The team is skeptical of hemps health benefits and wonders whether hemp beverages will be considered functional beverages.  Also in this episode, Sydney talks about tara flour, an ingredient that has come under scrutiny following an FDA declaration that it is unsafe. The FDA’s assessment comes over two years after Daily Harvest’s French Lentil + Leek Crumbles product containing tara flour sickened nearly 400 people. This ruling, dated May 15, 2024, is only the 15th such declaration by the agency since 2010. The FDA stated that tara flour does not meet the standards of “generally recognized as safe” (GRAS), which food manufacturers can use to avoid a lengthy food additive approval process. Tara is grown for several purposes, including as a food additive that acts as a stabilizer or thickening agent. It is also high in protein — about 43 percent protein by weight — making it an ideal source of plant-based protein. Daily Harvest used tara flour in its product without first obtaining FDA approval, leading to 133 hospitalizations and a $23 million settlement with victims. The team asserts that not all plant-based protein sources are healthy or safe and wonders whether Daily Harvest and its supplier will face further legal action.  Read the full article here: Hemp Beverages: How this Growing Market Navigates US Regulations:https://xtalks.com/hemp-beverages-how-this-growing-market-navigates-us-regulations-3862/ Tara Flour Safety Concerns Prompt FDA Action:https://xtalks.com/tara-flour-safety-concerns-prompt-fda-action-3867/ For more food and beverage industry content, visit the Xtalks Vitals homepage. https://xtalks.com/vitals/  Follow Us on Social Media Twitter: https://twitter.com/XtalksFood Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/xtalks/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Xtalks.Webinars/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/xtalks-webconferences YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/XtalksWebinars/featured

This episode of the Xtalks Food Podcast features an interview with with Annie Simmons, Field Application Scientist at Neogen, an international food safety company that provides test kits and relevant products to detect dangerous substances in food. Annie starts by discussing her educational background and professional journey that led her to specialize in food safety testing. She then talks about how food safety testing has evolved over the years as well as the major challenges it faces today. Annie emphasizes the critical role of traceability in food safety and how Neogen stays ahead of emerging food safety threats. She also highlights how regulatory changes impact food safety testing and the importance of consumer awareness and education in food safety.Read the full article here:Avian Flu in Cows Presents a New Challenge for the US Dairy Industry: https://xtalks.com/avian-flu-in-cows-presents-a-new-challenge-for-the-us-dairy-industry-3780/For more food and beverage industry content, visit the Xtalks Vitals homepage. https://xtalks.com/vitals/  Follow Us on Social Media Twitter: https://twitter.com/XtalksFood Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/xtalks/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Xtalks.Webinars/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/xtalks-webconferences YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/XtalksWebinars/featured

Lab-grown meat bans are becoming more common as governments worldwide react to the burgeoning cultivated meat industry. Recent bans in Florida, Alabama and Italy highlight the growing resistance to these products. In this episode of the Xtalks Food Podcast, Sydney talks about the current state of lab-grown meat bans. Lab-grown meat has existed since 2013, when it debuted at Maastricht University. Yet, consumer access remains limited. US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approvals currently cover only UPSIDE Foods and Good Meat, but their products are not yet available in stores. Proponents of lab-grown meat argue that consumer freedom should dictate the market’s future. Balancing consumer choice, ethical considerations and environmental impact will be crucial in determining the role of lab-grown meat in our food systems. The team posits that these bans are premature and believes the traditional meat industry and lab-grown meat industry will have to work in tandem with each other rather than be at odds.  Also in this episode, Sydney talks about SweetLeaf Xylitol Reduced Calorie Sweetener. It offers consumers a way to enjoy sweetness from nature with only 10 calories per serving, mirroring the taste of sugar without its negative impacts on blood sugar levels or dental health. Xylitol is a sugar alcohol naturally found in various fruits and plants. It’s been used for decades as a sweetener and dental health aid. Xylitol is not only about sweetness; it also boasts dental benefits by reducing the risk of tooth decay, unlike traditional sugar. Its efficacy as a sugar substitute is well-documented, with benefits like a lower glycemic impact compared to sugar. However, like many sugar alcohols, xylitol can cause digestive upset if consumed in large quantities. It is also highly toxic to dogs, so pet owners must use caution when storing products containing xylitol. The team applauds Xylitol for being a natural, rather than an artificial sweetener and wonders whether it will gain popularity.   Read the full article here: Lab-Grown Meat Banned in Florida and Alabama:https://xtalks.com/lab-grown-meat-banned-in-florida-and-alabama-3827/ SweetLeaf Xylitol: A New Frontier in Natural Sweetening:https://xtalks.com/sweetleaf-xylitol-a-new-frontier-in-natural-sweetening-3825/ For more food and beverage industry content, visit the Xtalks Vitals homepage. https://xtalks.com/vitals/  Follow Us on Social Media Twitter: https://twitter.com/XtalksFood Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/xtalks/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Xtalks.Webinars/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/xtalks-webconferences YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/XtalksWebinars/featured

This episode of the Xtalks Food Podcast features an interview with with Dirk Herdes, General Manager and Senior Vice President of Sales at Crisp, a platform that connects CPGs to real-time POS and inventory data from 40+ retailers and distributors. Dirk gives an overview of Crisp's platform and discusses how it integrates with retailers and distributors to provide actionable insights. He talks about how AI and analytics are transforming commercial food supply chains and explains how important real-time data is in the modern supply chain. Dirk also discusses some common challenges CPGs face when trying to streamline their supply chains as well as the differences between small and large CPGs when it comes to Crisp’s platform. He ends by giving advice to CPGs that are looking to leverage data strategies in their supply chains to improve efficiency and profitability. Read the full article here:2024 Food Industry Trends: Navigating the Future of Tech, Sustainability and Nutrition:https://xtalks.com/2024-food-industry-trends-navigating-the-future-of-tech-sustainability-and-nutrition-3637/For more food and beverage industry content, visit the Xtalks Vitals homepage. https://xtalks.com/vitals/Follow Us on Social Media Twitter: https://twitter.com/XtalksFood Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/xtalks/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Xtalks.Webinars/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/xtalks-webconferences YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/XtalksWebinars/featured

Last year, the American fast-food industry experienced significant transformations. Several chains expanded their market reach and others innovated to adapt to evolving consumer preferences. In this episode of the Xtalks Food Podcast, Sydney talks about the top 10 restaurant chains in America, ranked by their 2023 revenue. She not only highlights their financial achievements but also their influence on employment and their broad range of offerings. The top three highest-earning fast-food chains in 2023 include Starbucks, McDonald’s and Chick-fil-A. Other chains that made the list include Chipotle Mexican Grill, Domino’s Taco Bell and Wendy’s, among others. The top 10 restaurant chains excel in generating revenue and play a crucial role in shaping dining experiences across America. The team is surprised to learn that Starbucks was the highest-earning restaurant chain on the list and wonders how much third-party delivery apps impacted each company’s revenues.  Also in this episode, Sydney talks about a new rule implemented by the US Department of Agriculture (USDA) that mandates lower Salmonella levels in frozen breaded and stuffed chicken products. Starting in 2025, poultry producers will be required to decrease Salmonella to very low levels in targeted chicken products. Despite explicit cooking instructions on labels, the persistence of Salmonella-related illnesses underscores the necessity for strict regulations. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that Salmonella is the leading cause of foodborne illnesses, with chicken being a significant contributor. Approximately one in every 25 chicken packages at grocery stores is contaminated with Salmonella. This targeted regulation paves the way for broader Salmonella control measures, now under consideration by federal authorities. The team applauds the USDA for considering Salmonella an adulterant and wonders whether this rule will reduce foodborne-illness outbreaks. Read the full article here:Top 10 Restaurant Chains in America by 2023 Revenue:https://xtalks.com/top-10-restaurant-chains-in-america-by-2023-revenue-3824/ How Common Is Salmonella in Chicken? New USDA Regulations Target Frozen Products:https://xtalks.com/how-common-is-salmonella-in-chicken-new-usda-regulations-target-frozen-products-3812/ For more food and beverage industry content, visit the Xtalks Vitals homepage. https://xtalks.com/vitals/  Follow Us on Social Media Twitter: https://twitter.com/XtalksFood Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/xtalks/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Xtalks.Webinars/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/xtalks-webconferences YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/XtalksWebinars/featured

This episode of the Xtalks Food Podcast features an interview with with Cally Edgren, a PFAS expert and the Senior Director of Sustainability at Assent, a leader in supply chain sustainability management solutions. Cally starts off by explaining what PFAS chemicals are and why they are so prevalent in the food industry. She delves into the details of a federal PFAS ban that was proposed in April and how it would impact businesses if passed. She discusses some of the latest developments in technology that businesses are adopting to remove PFAS from their products and processes.Cally also talks about what consumers can do to minimize their exposure to PFAS, as well as how she foresees the role and presence of PFAS in the food industry evolving in the next five to ten years.Read the full article here:FDA Announces Slow Phase-Out of Certain PFAS Chemicals Used in Food Packaging:https://xtalks.com/fda-announces-slow-phase-out-of-certain-pfas-chemicals-used-in-food-packaging-2372/For more Food Industry content, visit the Xtalks Vitals homepage. https://xtalks.com/vitals/Follow Us on Social MediaTwitter: https://twitter.com/XtalksInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/xtalks/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Xtalks.Webinars/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/xtalks-webconferencesYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/XtalksWebinars/featured

With roughly one-third of all food produced globally lost or wasted, the food industry is pivoting towards sustainable practices aimed at curbing these losses. In this episode of the Xtalks Food Podcast, Sydney talks about how different sectors within the food industry are combating food waste on Stop Food Waste Day 2024 and beyond. For example, tech companies are creating software and systems that help restaurants and food producers optimize their inventory and Grocery chains are also revising their supply chain practices. Upcycling, turning by-products or waste materials into new, high-quality products, is another innovative approach gaining traction. The hospitality sector, including hotels and resorts, is also making substantial strides by implementing programs that analyze and improve food preparation and consumption patterns. The team wonders whether tech innovations like AI and blockchain can make a significant impact in cutting food waste across the supply chain.  Also in this episode, Sydney talks about the Business Benchmark on Farm Animal Welfare’s (BBFAW) recent report, which evaluated 150 prominent food companies and assigned the majority a low-performance impact rating due to their poor animal welfare practices. According to the report, approximately 95 percent of food companies worldwide recognize farm animal welfare as a central business issue. Despite this, none have reached Tier 1 ‘Leadership’ status in the BBFAW rankings. Many of the largest food companies, including Mars, Mondelez International and Starbucks, show no evidence of farm animal welfare on their business agendas, with Tier 6 rankings. Companies like Domino’s Pizza and Yum China Holdings are yet to even publish a formal farm animal welfare policy. The team posits that consumers shouldn’t have to pay a premium for ethical animal products, but rather that it should be the standard.   Read the full article here:  Stop Food Waste Day 2024: The Food Industry’s Role in Reducing Waste:https://xtalks.com/stop-food-waste-day-2024-the-food-industrys-role-in-reducing-waste-3798/ Farm Animal Welfare: Global Food Companies’ Challenges and Slow Progress:https://xtalks.com/farm-animal-welfare-global-food-companies-challenges-and-slow-progress-3807/ For more food and beverage industry content, visit the Xtalks Vitals homepage. https://xtalks.com/vitals/  Follow Us on Social Media Twitter: https://twitter.com/XtalksFood Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/xtalks/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Xtalks.Webinars/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/xtalks-webconferences YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/XtalksWebinars/featured

This episode of the Xtalks Food Podcast features an interview with with Carly Schildhaus, Director of Communications and Public Affairs at the National Confectioners Association (NCA). The NCA promotes chocolate, candy, gum and mints, and the companies that make these treats, as well as lobbies the American government in favor of the confectionery industry. Carly gives an overview of the controversy surrounding the state-level proposals to ban certain food additives and discusses how the adoption of these bans could impact the confectionery industry both operationally and financially. She talks about some challenges the NCA faces in communicating the safety and science behind food additives to consumers and lawmakers as well as the steps the NCA is taking to address both the immediate and long-term challenges posed by these legislative efforts.Read the full article here:Food Additive Ban? States Uphold Science Over Fear:https://xtalks.com/food-additive-ban-states-uphold-science-over-fear-3802For more food and beverage industry content, visit the Xtalks Vitals homepage. https://xtalks.com/vitals/Follow Us on Social Media Twitter: https://twitter.com/XtalksFood Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/xtalks/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Xtalks.Webinars/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/xtalks-webconferences YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/XtalksWebinars/featured