4 Trends We Saw at Natural Products Expo East 2023

The Natural Products Expo East, hosted by Informa Markets’ New Hope Network, recently held its final show in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. This event attracted over 1,000 exhibitors, including 425 first-time exhibitors, and nearly 16,000 attendees from various sectors, including retail, food service, and health and wellness. While Expo East marked the end of an era, it also signaled the birth of a new show, Newtopia Now. This upcoming event aims to provide a more tailored and intentional approach to connection and product discovery. Scheduled for August 6, 2024, it will take place at the newly expanded convention center in Savannah, Georgia.

Protein-packed and dairy-free drinks

At the Natural Products Expo East, Forager Project introduced Super Shake drinks in cocoa and vanilla flavors, each containing 16g of protein per bottle. These dairy-free drinks are free from stevia and provide a healthy option for consumers seeking more protein. Another innovation at the Natural Products Expo East came from Milkadamia, which unveiled its first line of USDA certified organic macadamia nut milks, available in various flavors. These products are free from additives like gums, fillers, and added flavors, offering a clean and organic alternative.

Mushrooms in beverages and everything else

Peak State introduced coffee infused with organic mushrooms like lion’s mane, chaga, reishi, cordyceps, and turkey tail at the Natural Products Expo East. This innovative approach to coffee combines the benefits of mushrooms with the rich flavors of coffee, creating a unique and health-conscious product. Another mushroom-infused drink at the Natural Products Expo East came from Juni. The brand has started offering its customers sparkling, ready-to-drink beverages infused with medicinal mushrooms. With flavors like lemon, tropical, peach, and raspberry, these drinks are sugar-free, low in calories, and contain caffeine for a refreshing and health-conscious option. Lastly, Host Defense’s Mycobotanicals Immune Powder combines mushrooms and herbs like astragalus, goji, schizandra, and acerola cherry to boost the immune system. This dual approach to immunity support offers a holistic solution for health-conscious consumers.

Fun and innovative food for the youngest

Globowl showcased organic purees with international flavors at the Natural Products Expo East. These purees come in glass jars and contain allergens like peanut butter, egg, soy, coconut, sesame, dairy, and fish. Kekoa Foods, Serenity Kids, and lil’ gourmets also presented organic vegetable-based baby food without added sugar. Else introduced a plant-based formula for babies and toddlers with almonds, buckwheat, and tapioca. Must Love offered frosted animal cookies and graham crackers sweetened with dates. Happy Grub unveiled an instant pancake mix in a squeezable form. Happy Wolf introduced refrigerated snack bars made with fruit, seeds, oats, and honey. Drumroll and Planet Bake filled the gap in the market for a national organic donut brand with their non-GMO but non-organic donuts. These options provide a healthier alternative for consumers and kids who crave donuts.

Food upcycling done right

TeaVoila addressed environmental concerns related to takeaway cups and plastic tea bags at the Natural Products Expo East. Their solution involves biodegradable and compostable paper cups with built-in tea infusers, reducing waste and offering a sustainable tea-drinking experience.