#USA #Las Vegas #Specialty Food #Winter Fancy Food #Junior Trendspotters

Highlights from the 2025 Winter Fancy Food Show

The Specialty Food Association (SFA) recently unveiled the top product picks at the 2025 Winter Fancy Food Show, driven by the insights of its Junior Trendspotter Panel. This initiative, which began in 2020, invites graduate students from the University of Nevada Las Vegas (UNLV) to identify trending products among specialty food exhibitors. With the event hosting nearly 1,100 companies and thousands of products from across the globe, the showcase was held from January 19-21 at the Las Vegas Convention Center.

The Role of the Junior Trendspotters

The Junior Trendspotters play an essential role in this annual event as they bring fresh perspectives reflective of the Gen Z demographic. According to research, by 2030, Millennials and Gen Z will comprise about 75% of tradeshow attendees. This makes the contributions of these emerging professionals crucial for shaping future industry trends.

Joseph Lema, a Professor at UNLV's Harrah College of Hospitality, emphasized the educational opportunity provided by participating in such an influential show: "Serving as Junior Trendspotters is a valuable learning experience that gives us insights into the latest specialty food and beverage products."

Top Product Picks Revealed

Among the standout products identified by the Junior Trendspotters were:

• - Alle Processing: Vegan nuggets and vegan pepperoni showcasing innovative plant-based options.
• - My Three Sons Gourmet: A pimento cheese spread that adds a gourmet twist to a classic favorite.
• - Mae Fine Foods: Chocolate bonbons that cater to the sweet tooth.
• - Rare Hawaiian Honey Company: Honey offerings capturing the essence of Hawaii.
• - Let Them Eat Candles: Unique edible candles catering to the dessert market.
• - Pacific Pickle Works: Their product 'KIMCHI meets Pickle' combines traditional Korean flavors with popular pickled goods.

On-Going Trends in Specialty Foods

1. Vegan Foods with Fusion Flavors

The trend for vegan options continues to flourish, evolving to incorporate fusion flavors and new forms. Sooyeon Lee, a Ph.D. candidate, noted the significance of Pacific Pickle Works’ innovative approach: "Their KIMCHI meets Pickle product is a prime example of blending culinary practices from different cultures, showcasing the exciting direction of vegan foods."

2. Instant Global Gratification

Consumers around the world are increasingly seeking foods that resonate with their diverse backgrounds and eating habits. Inyoung Jung, another Ph.D. candidate, highlights the rise of culturally inspired offerings like vegan ramen and plant-based seafood. "The elevation of Korean inspired foods, particularly at the Fancy Food Show, reflects a growing international love for these culinary delights," said Jung.

The Importance of Networking

The opportunity to network with industry professionals is a vital part of the students' experience at the Winter Fancy Food Show. According to Yuze (Crystal) Ji, one of the participating Ph.D. candidates, "Being part of this special event allows us to connect with business leaders, exchange innovative ideas, and understand evolving food trends firsthand."

Looking to the Future

The next Special Food Show will take place in New York from June 29-July 1 at the Javits Center, promising to feature thousands of specialty food products as well as numerous networking and educational events. This highly anticipated event further emphasizes the SFA's commitment to innovation and diversity in the food industry.

About the Specialty Food Association

Founded in 1952, the Specialty Food Association is a non-profit trade association representing over 4,000 businesses in the $207-billion specialty food industry. By developing resources, educational content, and events, the SFA supports innovation and inclusion within its community. For more details, visit their website at specialtyfood.com.

Conclusion

The Junior Trendspotter Program marks a significant step towards incorporating young professionals' insights into the specialty foods sector, ensuring that the industry remains vibrant and constantly evolving to meet consumer desires. As trends evolve, the synergy between tradition and innovation will pave the way for the future of food.