The annual Winter Fancy Food Show in San Francisco, CA not only showcases the latest in specialty foods. It’s also a great place to see first-hand what’s trending and what’s hot.
This year’s top trend was plant-based everything. Whether out of interest in reducing meat consumption, or because of “taste curiosity,” new plant-based product introductions have surged recently to meet consumer demand—and even more innovations are on the horizon.
We spotted a variety of plant-based products, from jerky to ice cream, and the show even offered a plant-based pavilion for brands to highlight their meatless goods. As brands continue to develop new plant-based products, the opportunities for incorporating sustainable, nutritious ingredients like peanuts will continue to grow. In fact, several companies were showcasing products featuring peanuts.
Here are some notable examples that caught our attention:
Sweet Nothings – This plant-based frozen treat is made using a proprietary blend of fruits, nuts and seeds, making it a delicious vegan alternative to traditional ice cream. Their peanut butter flavor is made with peanuts, bananas, dates, flax and chia seeds.
Nakd – These British-based snack bars boast a plant-based ingredient list without added sugars or preservatives. Their Peanut Delight flavor has only three ingredients—dates, peanuts and salt—that will satisfy a snack craving without all the guilt.
Nelly’s Organics – Featuring a variety of plant-based, dark chocolate-covered bars, Nelly’s includes a peanut butter and coconut flavor in its lineup that is really delicious. Their products are available in the refrigerated section of specialty and organic food markets.
Life’s Grape Peanut Butter Dipped, Vine-Dried Grapes – This was one of the most innovative new products we came across during the show. Described by the company as “raisins revamped,” these vine-dried grapes are dipped in a peanut butter coating for a naturally sweet treat that’s a nod to the classic PB&J.
Kakookies – Cookies made with wholesome ingredients; these treats are meant to provide a satisfying snack on the go. The peanut butter chocolate chip flavor provides six grams of plant-based protein with no artificial ingredients or preservatives.
The National Peanut Board also had an exhibit at the show where five brands showcased their own plant-based peanut products. Here are the companies who joined the booth: