Supplements and personal care categories boost baskets as grocery presents a challenge for Natural Grocers by Vitamin Cottage. Here's how the third quarter looked for the health food chain.
Friday, July 29, 2016
Are these 5 natural product trends tipping mainstream?
See which concepts were top performers in New Hope Network's NEXT Trend Concept Lab, which tests early-stage product concepts in mainstream consumers to predict their probability of success.
5@5: Reducing food waste at retail | Boulder Brands boosts Pinnacle's Q2
Five things the natural products industry needs to know today.
Natural product movers & shakers - July 2016
Your recap of who did what in the natural products industry this month.
GNC: A cautionary tale, but not how you think it is
Has the company just sent a message that quality costs too much money?
Natural product company news of the week
A roundup of announcements from natural product companies this week, including new sprouted grain pancake mixes from Pamela's Products and kid-friendly noodle cups from Revolution Foods.
Maple Hill Creamery bets on education to boost grass-fed dairy
Maple Hill Creamery's new campaign (which includes an online video, social media engagement, rebrand and more), aims to educate on grass-fed milk's benefits.
What does departure of GNC CEO Mike Archbold say about supplement industry reform?
GNC has promised to continue former CEO Mike Archbold's efforts at supplement industry reform, but his departure does little to inspire confidence.
Why Naomi Whittel is more excited than ever about the future of the supplement industry
The Twinlab CEO said she's encouraged by collaboration between companies and trade associations, and a renewed focus on transparency and personal responsibility.
5@5: Nutrition lessons from Brazil? | Soylent says it 'proudly' uses GMOs
Five things the natural products industry needs to know today.
Thursday, July 28, 2016
Whole Foods Market continues to fight falling comps
In a Q3 earnings call, Whole Foods Market leadership shared insights on the first two 365 stores and the tactics they hope can help the retailer regain momentum.
GNC drops CEO as sales declines continue
Former PetSmart chairman and CEO will take the helm of GNC as the board seeks new leadership amid ongoing sales declines.
5@5: GMO tomatoes? | Plant-based Impossible Burger hits NYC menu
Five things the natural products industry needs to know today.
3 aspects of managing your personnel expenses
Personnel is usually the single biggest line item in a small business’ budget. The cost of getting things wrong is high. Take the time to think through the following aspects to ensure you're getting the best return on your investment.
Are there peanut skins in your grape seed extract?
Polyphenolics
Polyphenolics’ findings of adulterants in grape seed extracts points to need for best-in-class authentication practices.
Wednesday, July 27, 2016
Campbell’s goes big on natural and organic—and everyone else should follow
CEO Denise Morrison recently outlined Campbell's plans to add $2 billion in packaged fresh product sales by 2020, demonstrate more transparency and operate in a more agile way.
Natural Products Association launches warning letter database
Natural Products Association
Members have free access to search warnings, enforcement actions
With this new database from the Natural Products Association, dietary supplement manufacturers, retailers and consumers can track violations, trends and enforcement actions as reported by the Food and Drug Administration and other federal agencies.
Q&A: How organic research is advancing
Sarah Protzman Howlett
Jessica Shade, director of science programs for The Organic Center, about recent key research around organic and what we can expect next.
5@5: Half of Americans surveyed acknowledge food waste is a problem | Soy milk slumps
Five things the natural products industry needs to know today.
At what point should my startup engage a law firm?
As early as possible, says one lawyer—but definitely before making a few specific decisions outlined here.
What are the key aspects of succession planning?
Handing off your business is a scary thought, as is losing your rock-star general manager. A retailer, a consultant and a store owner share their best tips for fewer headaches during staff and ownership transitions.
What are the key aspects of succession planning?
Handing off your business is a scary thought, as is losing your rock-star general manager. A retailer, a consultant and a store owner share their best tips for fewer headaches during staff and ownership transitions.
Bring back romance to the pasture
Widespread use of artificial insemination to create more food production is contributing to a troubling reduction in the genetic diversity in dairy animals and many other livestock species.
Tuesday, July 26, 2016
5@5: Pea-based alt milk attracts Google as investor in $30M round | Ad campaign makes ugly food sexy
Five things the natural products industry needs to know today.
5 Big Food incubators and investment funds
It an be difficult for CPG giants to mimic the agility and energy of natural food startups. Here are some that are investing in and incubating small natural product companies.
Vitamin D and menstrual cramps
In a recently published clinical trial, women with menstrual cramps experienced significantly less pain after taking vitamin D for eight weeks.
Monday, July 25, 2016
Avoke wins Ganeden's Probiotic Innovation Jumpstart contest
Ganeden Probiotics
Avoke's Spoonables line of avocado-based smoothie bowls won Ganeden's first Probiotic Innovation Jumpstart contest, which includes $25,000 to support the product's launch. The two companies plan to launch the "ready-to-go" snack this fall.
Saturday, July 23, 2016
5@5: Study finds alcohol may cause 7 different cancers | More federal money needed to protect food
Today's natural news docket includes: Alcohol causes 7 different cancers; More federal money needed to protect food; Happy cows make better milk
Friday, July 22, 2016
Natural product company news of the week
A roundup of announcements from natural product companies this week, including a new line of USDA organic kombucha drinks and non-GMO ingredients from Bunge.
Tom Harkin and the long-term view on supplements
The retired Iowa senator believes the nutrition business is stronger than ever.
5@5: Indigo Agriculture, Innit raise capital | Nestle's CEO urges businesses to cut food waste
Five things the natural products industry needs to know today.
Millennials weigh in on what makes food brands authentic
Watershed Communications
Kind Bars and Honest Tea were among the top five authentic food and beverage brands named in a recent survey of millennials. See what qualities this generation of shoppers looks for.
Thursday, July 21, 2016
Amazon's growth points to need for retailers to explore online grocery
Elliot Zwiebach | Supermarket News
"Grocers that are not at least thinking about e-commerce will put themselves at a competitive disadvantage as more consumers seek online options," says one online retailer.
Mollie Stone’s Markets celebrates 30 years
CEO Mike Stone discusses what’s changed—and what’s stayed the same—since the store opened its doors in 1986 in the Bay Area.
Chobani now accepting applications to first-of-its-kind food incubator
Chobani LLC
Incubator participants will receive equity-free grants, mentorship and access to leadership team
The Chobani Food Incubator is designed to help entrepreneurs and small food companies challenge the food industry, improve broken systems and make a difference.
5@5: Walmart's new offering is a bag of ugly apples | How consumers read the Nutrition Facts panel
Five things the natural products industry needs to know today.
Wednesday, July 20, 2016
Healthy Food Ingredients to acquire Heartland Flax
Healthy Food Ingredients
Transaction expands HFI’s portfolio of organic, gluten-free, non-GMO ingredients
Healthy Food Ingredients plans to expand Heartland Flax's facility in Valley City, North Dakota. The acquisition adds to the company's portfolio of non-GMO, organic, gluten-free ingredients.
5@5: General Mills takes 'entrepreneurial approach' to innovation | Keeping checkoff programs in check
Five things the natural products industry needs to know today.
New dehydration process spells opportunity for NewfoodZ—and for waste reduction
NewfoodZ brings a scientific and entrepreneurial eye to food waste not by creating a processing method that can be applied broadly to many waste streams, from bananas to chicken.
Launching a mission-based company starts with telling an authentic story [webinar replay]
In a recent New Hope Network webinar, Kuli Kuli Founder and CEO Lisa Curtis explained how having a social mission can grow your brand.
3 plant-based food categories with momentum in the natural channel
Innovation in meat and dairy alternatives is stemming from the natural channel, where plant-based food sales grew at three times the rate of growth in the multi-outlet channel. SPINS shares a look at where the momentum is.
Tuesday, July 19, 2016
Unboxed: 13 new natural foods & beverages
Here, we review luscious French desserts, clean-ingredient nut milks, speed scratch dinners and more.
Glanbia Nutritionals reorganizes, brings together units' expertise
Glanbia Nutritionals
The reformed Glanbia Nutritionals brings together the expertise of separate units of the company into one integrated organization.
The yoga of echinacea
The bees have it: Watch Gaia Herbs founder Ric Scalzo as he guides you through the art and ag of herbal medicine making.
5@5: Organic Valley makes transparency push | More vitamin D can be added to soy products, milk
Five things the natural products industry needs to know today.
FTC action could end the Herbalife-Ackman feud
How will the dust settle after the settlement?
Herbalife seems likely to emerge stronger from the fight with Ackman and the FTC.
FlavorHealth launches at IFT '16 with natural flavor solutions
FlavorHealth
The company develops specialty flavor systems focused in sugar reduction, sodium reduction and bitter balancing.
Nature and science mix at Gaia Herbs' North Carolina farm
Gaia Herbs founder and CEO Ric Scalzo explains how vertical integration helps the company meet its objective to control the supply chain from seed to shelf.
Asheville, home of Gaia Herbs, the mecca of plant medicine
Western North Carolina has long been a center for holistic healing. Now it’s attracting businesses to move to the area.
Monday, July 18, 2016
Is there a difference between 'natural' and 'all natural'? FTC says yes
In response to comments it received about a proposed settlement with personal care companies, the FTC gives clues about its interpretation of the two claims.
10 new products nominated for Fresno Food Expo awards
What's trending in food? California often offers cues. So, here, we look to the West Coast city of Fresno as the Fresno Food Expo announces its awards nominees.
Sunday, July 17, 2016
Saturday, July 16, 2016
Meet Generation Z: A price-conscious group that seeks personal interactions at retail
Supermarket News
These young consumers value in-person experience and prioritize cleanliness, friendliness, knowledge and a good checkout experience at retail.
5@5: FTC decides Herbalife is not a pyramid scheme | More food companies incentivize farmers to go organic
Five things the natural products industry needs to know today.
Americans are buying more organic produce than ever
Organic Trade Association
Organic fruit sales have more than doubled since 2011, while organic vegetable sales have jumped by 92 percent. OTA offers insight into what—and who—is contributing to these strong numbers.
Natural product company news of the week
A roundup of announcements from natural product companies this week, including Non-GMO Project verification for Applegate and Erin Baker's, and new salad dressing from Hilary's.
Packaging spotlight: 5 natural product rebrands that rock
Kashi, Mighty Leaf and more get fresh new looks.
Friday, July 15, 2016
Organic: The one label with teeth
Though it's been receiving criticism as of late, the USDA Organic seal is the only label claim that has the teeth of civil fines and other penalties for individuals and companies that violate the standards.
5@5: GMO labeling battle moves to 'regulatory and marketplace' phase | Food waste: A tale of 6 foods
Five things the natural products industry needs to know today.
How to generate trust and avoid ingredient claims confusion [webinar replay]
In case you missed it, watch the replay of the Ingredient Claims Confusion webinar.
Webinars for Entrepreneurs: How to crush your fundraising on CircleUp
Tio Gazpacho founder Austin Allan will share his perspective on how to leverage the tools CircleUp offers and have realistic expectations of investors.
Thursday, July 14, 2016
DSM to host November innovation conference in New Jersey
Royal DSM
Science-based company seeks to partner, invest in 'better food' technologies, products
Entrepreneurs and innovators looking for financing and partnership are encouraged to apply to attend the Partnering Innovation Conference with top DSM executives to explore business collaborations and investment opportunities.
5@5: Salty snacks are big sellers | A Wild nut butter success story
Five things the natural products industry needs to know today.
Introducing bulk foods: A 'whole new' way of shopping
New trends are rarely new ideas. Will bulk foods be the next big thing?
Bulk grocery stores aren't new, but the awareness around their benefits might finally bring them their day in the sun.
Is kombucha on tap a fit for your store?
It takes a certain customer base for retailers to see success with kombucha on tap. Two retailers who’ve done it right share the smart way to tap the fermented trend du jour.
Wednesday, July 13, 2016
D during pregnancy may lower kids’ allergy risk
Shara Rutberg
Moms’ consumption of D-rich food linked
Could a daily glass of milk mean a lifetime without Allegra?
5@5: Packaged salads lead Americans to eat more greens | Food deals keep flowing
Five things the natural products industry needs to know today.
New Neptune image to reflect transition to a nutrition products company
Neptune Wellness Solutions
Neptune “Technologies & Bioressources” has rebranded to Neptune “Wellness Solutions” to reposition themselves with new offer and broadened capabilities.
When launching a new product, begin with the end in mind
It’s not enough to invent a great product. You must also know that you can get the idea to be a commercially viable outcome. Jeff Grogg, founder of JPG Resources, discusses strategies for working with a co-manufacturer.
Rodale honors 3 organic industry pioneers
Rodale Institute has announced the recipients to be honored at the upcoming 6th Annual Organic Pioneer Awards (OPA). The OPA is an opportunity to recognize one research scientist, farmer and business that are helping lead the way to an organic planet. Recipients include toxicologist Dr. Warren Porter, organic farmer David Vetter, and CEO of Dr. Bronner’s, David Bronner. This year’s awards ceremony will take place on Saturday, Sept. 10, 2016.
Tuesday, July 12, 2016
Chocolate during pregnancy may help fetus
Shara Rutberg
Study suggests it’s OK for moms to hit the (chocolate) bar
Making pregnancy sweeter
Why the Senate's new GMO labeling bill is inadequate
The Roberts-Stabenow GMO labeling bill is a watered down version of what labeling proponents advocated for, and it fails to provide enough information on the package.
5@5: Zero-waste grocery arrives in the U.S. | Kellogg's cereal in the produce aisle?
Five things the natural products industry needs to know today.
Why Whole Foods' move to start sharing POS scan data matters
The move underscores the momentum with which the natural products market is evolving, and the need for all businesses to adapt and transform to new realities to remain relevant.
Got supplements?
Many of your customers eat healthy, well-rounded diets, but that doesn't make them immune to common nutrient deficiencies and dietary pitfalls. Here, we offer research-backed information on why most shoppers still need a nutritional boost from dietary supplements.
Monday, July 11, 2016
Sunday, July 10, 2016
Is self-regulation of supplements actually, at long last, working?
Todd Runestad
Supplements industry responding to forces to get better
Combined, by 2020 this ought to be a significantly changed supplements – and ingredient supply – business.
Saturday, July 9, 2016
Fiber early fights cancer later
Shara Rutberg
Teens who ate more may have lower risk of breast cancer
What you did, er, ate, in high school does come back to haunt you
5@5: Kroger's big plans for better sourcing, less waste | Big ag focuses new GMOs on potential health benefits
Five things the natural products industry needs to know today.
How Dirty Lemon's business model caters to modern consumers
Tips from Dirty Lemon CEO Zak Normandin, on the importance of branding (hint: it's everything!) and scrutinizing consumer experience.
Friday, July 8, 2016
Natural product company news of the week
A roundup of announcements from natural product companies this week, including two new joint health products from NeoCell and fruit-infused, cold pressed probiotic waters from Uncle Matt's.
Meet the judges for the NEXTY Awards at Natural Products Expo East 2016
These natural products industry experts will help choose the most innovative, inspiring and integrity-driven products to win NEXTY Awards at Natural Products Expo East 2016.
A Gouda way to fight cancer?
Could we one day ditch the nasty chemicals and fight cancer with cheese?
That scenario might be a stretch, but researchers have found that a compound in cheese may actually kill cancer cells. And if anyone needs another reason to indulge in cheesy bliss, that’s a good one.
The next bug to hit Latin America (and Asia)
Shara Rutberg
Probiotics’ next hotspots
Experts forecast strong sales for probiotics in Asia and Latin America in the future.
With $12.5 billion WhiteWave deal, Danone gains solid standing in natural and organic
Dairy giant Danone's acquisition of WhiteWave buys them into natural and organic with a big collection of brands and the keen view and knowledge of the space that could be WhiteWave’s biggest asset.
5@5: Vermont senators push back against DARK Act | Supplement or drug? 1 ingredient, 2 approaches
Five things the natural products industry needs to know today.
WhiteWave Foods bought by Danone
WhiteWave and Danone
Danone, which owns a number of dairy, nutrition and water products, says the deal will grow its footprint in North America and expand its dairy, organic and plant-based food portfolio.
Thursday, July 7, 2016
Coffee might not make your heart race
Shara Rutberg
Coffee didn’t kick up the frequency of irregular or accelerated heart beats in a new study, the largest of its kind.
Zinc may help boost seniors’ immunity
More zinc, happier T-cells
Zinc supplements kicked up the serum zinc levels and the immune systems of seniors in a small study.
5@5: Are subsidized foods making Americans fat? | Gaia Herbs grows in North Carolina
Five things the natural products industry needs to know today.
Chipotle's cutest (and kind of scariest) film yet
Chipotle's third original film, "A Love Story," inspires a good-food future.
Wednesday, July 6, 2016
5@5: No, really—what is 'healthy'? | REBBL CEO moves from bars and baby food to superherbs
Five things the natural products industry needs to know today.
3 hot ingredient trends from Summer Fancy Food Show 2016
We went. We ate. We drank. Now, we digest the trends rocking the Summer Fancy Food Show 2016. Here, find three ingredients and flavor profiles that kept appearing at the show again and again.
3 trends driving natural retail success
Natural retailers navigate new roads as market changes ensue. Here are three ways forward.
2016 NFM Market Overview [PDF download]
Download the full 2016 Market Overview with features and charts in PDF form.
To understand what consumers want and need, study the outliers
A nation of so-called food tribes is demanding change in the food system. See how understanding the values and behaviors of these groups can inspire innovation.
Links to the 2016 NFM Market Overview stories, charts and data
Want to find all of the annual Natural Foods Merchandiser Market Overview online? This table of contents will direct you to the articles and data found in the issue and online only.
Tuesday, July 5, 2016
Crafting a new future for independent natural retail
After years of shrinking sales, store closures and widespread worry about encroaching competition, the clouds are finally clearing for independent natural products stores.
Building authenticity at natural products retail
Consumers value it. Brands have it. But what does this ubiquitous term actually mean when it comes to doing business in natural retail?
Artisan technique, quality ingredients define natural personal care’s vibrant future
Sales growth for health and beauty products surpassed that of both food and supplements in the natural channel last year. Here's a look at what's working.
Sports & Performance Nutrition Awards showcase what's trending in sports nutrition overseas
Bridge2Food
Pizza, DIY energy bars and pea protein were the winners of Bridge2Food’s first Sports & Performance Nutrition Awards showcasing innovation, design and natural ingredients.
Nimble independent retailers adapt to modern natural products shopper
Americans are interested in food, but they're cooking less. Here, retailers share how they cater to this modern consumer phenomenon while nurturing relationships with their passionate, perceptive and even persnickety shoppers.
New survey: Consumer interest in prebiotics growing, but more information needed
AIPD Inc.
IFT 2016 attendees to get deep dive on prebiotic research featuring AIDP’s PreticX
More than 38 percent of dietary supplement users would be likely to try a prebiotic that benefits digestive and immune health, if those benefits were validated by university research.
Market Overview: Regional independent growth [chart]
What does natural channel retail growth look like across the country? This NFM 2016 Market Overview chart shares the view.
Market Overview: Universe of natural products retail [chart]
How do sales in the natural channel break down by retail type? This NFM 2016 Market Overview chart breaks it down.
Market Overview: Business statistics [charts]
Examine natural channel retail statistics about sales, product offerings, customers and employees with this Natural Foods Merchandiser 2016 Market Overview data.
Market Overview: Natural channel growth and competition [charts]
How many natural products retailers are expanding and renovating? The Natural Foods Merchandiser 2016 Market Overview has this answer in this chart.
Market Overview: Average sales by store type, and profit and expense [charts]
Find out how natural retailers performed with sales, profit and expense in 2015.
Market Overview: Natural products stores' 2015 sales by category [charts]
Follow natural channel category sales with this NFM Market Overview chart.
Supplements spotlight: Which categories—and consumers—drove sales in 2015?
Herbs, education and renewing the "old standbys" among sales drivers for supplements. Learn the other hot areas and who is buying.
Friday, July 1, 2016
5@5: Scientists and doctors call for action against toxic chemicals | Vermont's big day arrives
Five things the natural products industry needs to know today.
MOM's Organic Market embarks on solar power project
MOM's Organic Market
The Maryland retailer signed a 20-year agreement to purchase 100 percent of the power generated by a nearby solar farm, which will meet one-quarter of its power needs.
How to make sure your package label doesn’t land you in legal hot water
In this presentation from the 2015 Natural Products Business School at Natural Products Expo East, Dan Williams, partner at Faegre Baker Daniels LLP, shared his insights in how to make sure your package label doesn’t land you in legal hot water.
Secret Shopper: How does packaged bone broth compare to what can be made at home?
This month, NFM's secret shopper visited a natural foods co-op in the Midwest to get the scoop on packaged bone broths. How did this retailer do?
Natural product company news of the week
A roundup of announcements from natural product companies this week, including awards for GoMacro and a new event focused on personal care ingredients.
NOW partners with GrassrootsHealth to fund grassroots prenatal vitamin D project
NOW Foods
Program aims to cut $35 million in Montana's annual healthcare costs
NOW — a family-owned, leading manufacturer of dietary supplements — will partner with nonprofit GrassrootsHealth to provide vitamin D supplements to pregnant women in a pilot program designed to improve birth outcomes.
Natural product movers & shakers - June 2016
Your recap of who did what in the natural products industry this month.
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