The announcement that Amazon is buying Whole Foods was arguably one of the biggest industry news stories to kick off summer 2017.

Many leading brands have already made the switch from traditional rigid containers to flexible pouches for their product packaging.

Some of the biggest advantages of using stand up pouches or barrier bags for products are a reduction in production costs and an increase in shipping or transportation efficiencies. Stand up pouches also help companies build their brand image and distinguish themselves in a crowded retail landscape full of competing products.

New developments are emerging every day in the world of sustainable packaging — from biodegradable containers to edible packages, brands are making great strides embracing innovative solutions that are good for the earth.

While we admire these numerous efforts, we also recognize that some of these alternatives to non-recyclable containers may not be the best options for preserving the freshness and safety of the food products inside. If the outer packaging is able to deteriorate and biodegrade, will it really work to best protect what’s inside of it for an extended period of time?

Donald Trump’s race to the White House has been filled with much discussion and debate from both sides — one of the most interesting hot topics involves his views on the future of the food industry.

Like it or not, we are in the midst of a marijuana renaissance. Consumers from all different walks of life now embrace what was once considered a drug that appealed to the stoner, hippie, or burnout archetype.

We now know the benefits of the plant are vast, ranging from pain relief to boosting appetite and lowering anxiety. Right now, marijuana is legalized throughout half of the United States as a medicinal product with tight regulations that vary by region. It is indeed legal for recreational purposes in several states as well, proving that it is quickly moving away from its controversial place in society and is being embraced by the majority. 

Today’s food companies are making great strides toward nurturing the health of our environment. From setting goals to reduce material waste, to adopting recyclable or compostable packaging, brands are making it easier for consumers to feel good about the products they purchase.

When we think of progressive food and beverage companies that utilize organic ingredients and speak to the eco-conscious consumer, generally smaller, local businesses come to mind. However, some of the leading food corporations are taking cues from the little guys and are making a significant positive impact on the world around us, starting with new campaigns that focus on strengthening our ecosystem.

Food marketers who stay apprised of the latest industry trends and consumer desires already know most shoppers are incorporating more wholesome, natural ingredients into their diets.

All across the globe, large companies are retooling their products to remove artificial additives, and their marketing teams are using new methods to maintain customer loyalty while selling their refreshed clean-label foods. Still, a recent survey by Instantly shows 75 percent of U.S. consumers say they trust small natural food companies over large, established brands. Another 70 percent believe most food companies selling healthy, organic packaged foods are independently owned and operated.

Buzzwords like “natural” and “organic” are plastered all over food packaging in stores, but how can consumers really be sure these products are providing adequate nutrition?

Food and beverage manufacturers are sparking a new demand for clearer health claims wording on product packaging so they can properly communicate the benefits of their goods to customers.

Even nutritionists are pointing out how unclear wording on retail packaging is preventing the public from making healthy choices. Further, sticking to stringent, formal, approved health claim jargon makes it difficult for manufacturers to include creative, enticing words on their goods.

The news has been abuzz lately with recent health-food initiatives enacted throughout the U.S., from the trans fats ban to big brands like General Mills vowing to remove artificial colors and ingredients from their products. The demand for more natural, organic foods isn’t just an American trend – consumers across the globe are shifting their preferences to products and packaging made with unprocessed materials that come from the earth.

A milestone has been achieved in the food industry — the House Committee on Agriculture has passed the Safe and Accurate Food Labeling Act, making it one step closer to enactment nationwide. This act would bring forth mandatory labeling of all food containing GMOs throughout the United States. As a result, this act will give Americans accurate, consistent information about their food, displayed boldly and proudly on its packaging.