The first CPG and specialty food product-based trade show of the year — the Specialty Food Association’s Winter Fancy Food Show — blew into Las Vegas with a fresh, exciting outlook for 2024. Exhibitors who used honey to sweeten products did so in innovative, new ways:
- As a natural sweetener. Honey adds sweetness to products as Mother Nature’s sweetener. Many consumers perceive honey as nutritious, and its inclusion in CPG products contributes to a positive image.
- As a flavor enhancer. With more than 300 varietals of honey in the U.S., honey’s capabilities to provide distinct and rich flavor profiles to products is endless. Plus, it can add depth and complexity to food and beverage flavor profiles.
- For moisture retention. In baked goods, for example, honey helps retain moisture, preventing products from becoming dry. This not only improves texture, but shelf life of products.
- For texture improvement. Viscosity and texture of honey can improve consistency and mouthfeel of products like sauces, dressings and spreads.
- For marketing appeal. The use of honey on packaging can be highlighted in both marketing and labeling to attract consumers looking for natural, whole food, clean label ingredients. And who doesn’t love a friendly honey bee?
There are quite a few Winter Fancy Food products that tick the honey-positive boxes, and here are some of our standout picks:
