Natural Products Expo West is often considered the Super Bowl of the food industry, and for a good reason. With over 70,000 visitors and 3,2000 exhibitors this year, there was so much to see in such little time. Whether you couldn’t make it or just couldn’t see everything, we’ve got you covered. Here are the top trends that our Red River Foods team spotted at the show this year.
1. Dairy Innovation Goes Nuts (Literally)
The plant-based milk category isn’t slowing down - it’s diversifying. While almond, soy, and oat have dominated shelves, we’re seeing a wave of premium nut-based milks hitting the market. Cashew, pistachio, macadamia, coconut, pecan, and flaxseed milks were showcased as creamier, more sustainable, and nutrient-rich alternatives.
Stat to Know:
The global plant-based milk market was valued at $19.42 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach $32.35 billion by 2030, growing at a 7.6% compound annual growth rate (CAGR) from 2024 to 2030. Macadamia and pistachio milk are gaining traction for their unique flavors and sustainability profiles.
2. Coconut Reigns Supreme
Coconut was everywhere - milk, yogurt, water, cookies, puddings, and more. Brands are leaning into coconut for its versatility, clean label appeal, and consumer familiarity. We saw coconut-based products positioned as hydrating and high in MCTs - Medium Chain Triglycerides which provide quick energy, support ketosis, boost metabolism, and aid brain and gut health
Stat to Know:
The global coconut water market was valued at $4.43 billion in 2024 and is expected to expand at a 17.3% CAGR from 2025 to 2030. Functional beverages are driving this boom.
3. Mushrooms go Mainstream
From adaptogenic powders to mushroom jerky and coffee alternatives, fungi are taking center stage. Lion’s Mane, Reishi, and Chaga were featured for their cognitive and immune-boosting benefits.
Stat to Know:
The global functional mushroom market was valued at $31.71 billion in 2023 and is expected to expand at a CAGR of 11.2% from 2024 to 2030.
4. Dates as the Sweetener of Choice
Clean-label sweeteners are in demand, and dates are leading the charge. We saw dates used in energy bars, spreads, baking mixes, and confections as a natural, fiber-rich alternative to processed sugars.
Stat to Know:
In the United States, the date syrup market generated $28.2 million in revenue in 2024 and is anticipated to grow at a CAGR of 7.6% from 2025 to 2030, reaching $43.6 million by 2030. This is driven by consumer demand for natural and recognizable ingredients.
5. Clean Labels for Kids
Parents are more ingredient-conscious than ever, and brands are responding with simplified, nutrient-dense offerings for children. Think organic fruit snacks, seed butters, and fortified cereals - all free from additives and preservatives.
Stat to Know:
A 2024 survey found that 51% of parents with young children actively seek out clean label packaged foods, reflecting a strong preference for transparency and simplicity in children's food labeling.
6. The Rise of Functional Beverages
“Healthy soda” isn’t just a fad. Prebiotic sodas, electrolyte mixes, and adaptogen-infused drinks were all over Expo West, and we will only see more of them in upcoming years. Consumers want hydration that offers more - whether that’s gut health, immunity, or energy.
Stat to Know:
Functional beverages are expected to grow from $137 billion in 2024 to $200 billion by 2030. Prebiotic sodas like Poppi and Olipop are leading the way, with Poppi reporting a 148% increase in sales year-over-year.
7. Regenerative Agriculture Continues to Grow
Organic isn’t enough - regenerative agriculture is becoming a non-negotiable for many brands. While it’s not necessarily “the norm” quite yet, it continues to grow at a rapid pace. Transparent supply chains, soil health initiatives, and partnerships with regenerative farms were prominently featured from brands big and small.
Stat to Know:
As climate-conscious eating habits continue to rise, the regenerative agriculture market is expected to reach $29.7 billion by 2032. We are seeing major retailers setting regenerative sourcing targets for 2030.
8. Protein Takes Center Stage (Again)
Protein remains a key purchase driver. We saw it in everything from nut butters to snack mixes to dairy alternatives. This is not a new trend, but it is one that continues to grow every year. Consumers continue to associate protein with satiety, energy, and wellness.
Stat to Know:
63% of U.S. consumers are actively seeking high-protein foods, and the plant-based protein market saw a 12% growth in 2024, with plant-based protein sales outpacing the growth of traditional animal-based protein.
Final Takeaway
Despite economic uncertainties, consumers continue to prioritize transparency and sustainability in their food choices.
A recent report highlights that consumers, especially Millennials and high-income groups, expect transparency in ingredients and sourcing. The emphasis on sustainability is evident, with trends indicating a shift toward regenerative farming, eco-friendly packaging, and reduced carbon footprints.
The Red River Foods team a Expo West 2025
As a leading supplier of high quality nuts, seeds, and dried fruits, Red River Foods remains committed to partnering with brands that champion transparency and sustainability. Get in touch with us today to learn more about how we can partner together for your sourcing needs.
