‘Swicy,’ the combination of sweet and spicy, was a word heard all throughout the Summer Fancy Food Show, as it continues to be one of the top flavor trends the food industry is tracking.

GS1 US has now launched an initiative called Sunrise 2027, which involves brands transitioning from UPC barcodes to 2D barcodes/QR codes on product packaging and retailers being prepared to accept them at checkout by 2027.

Also new at Melissa’s, the company has announced a joint venture with Goldenberry Farms to be an official distributor of its top-selling Sweet Sugar Mango.

Specialty produce is evolving with the times, and Frieda’s is staying ahead of the curve with a focus on meeting consumer demand for the latest trending foods and flavors, the company said.

Consumers may find the teas at select retailers nationwide beginning at Sprouts Farmers Market, later Whole Foods Market and The Fresh Market and the company’s website.

“As we look to the year ahead, our top priority is to accelerate our organic net sales growth, and specifically our volume growth, by delivering remarkable experiences across our portfolio of leading brands,” said Jeffrey Harmening, chairman and CEO.

The farm bill expired in fall 2023, but Congress passed a one-year extension, making the new deadline Sept. 30, 2024.

Meticulous Research predicts the market to be worth $118.8 billion by 2031 at a CAGR of 10.1% from 2024 to 2031.

Employee retention, labor shortages and workplace efficiency continue to be top concerns for managers in the grocery industry.

Retailers who figure out not only how to ease sticker shock for shoppers, but also to let them know they’re on their side, stand much to gain.