Everything from packaging techniques and materials to the equipment within facilities is part of the innovation that we can expect to see in the food and beverage industry over the next year. And below are some exciting things to look out for.

PLASTIC-FREE AND SMART PACKAGING Biodegradable packaging is made from polymer-derived plastic that will degrade with the help of living organisms. Even if consumers choose not to eat the edible packaging, it will decay naturally over time without harming the environment.

DRINKS THAT OFFER MORE This has led to the continuing popularity of functional beverages like health drinks that boast various benefits. Beyond the prebiotic- and probiotic-rich drinks available, you can expect to see an increase in other functional beverages over the next year, including omega-3-enriched dairy beverages and other fermented drinks.

ADVANCED COMPUTERIZED TECHNOLOGY Continued advancements in computerized food processing technology have cemented automation and autonomous equipment as integral to the food production and processing industry. As demand continues to soar along with costs, automation is helping to decrease production time while increasing output.

A MODERN DRAINAGE SYSTEM New types of drainage systems offer improved safety and sanitation throughout food and beverage processing facilities. The 10,000 Series Slot Drain system is made from highly durable, food-grade stainless steel, making it temperature-, corrosion-, odor-, and bacteria-resistant. The system can withstand heavy flow rates, as well as heavy forklift traffic, with a Load Class E rating for heavy-duty equipment.

MODERNIZATION OF OLD PROCESSING TECHNIQUES The original and ancient fermentation method involved mixing decaying fruit with things like wild rice and saliva in bowls, where they were left to ferment in small batches. Over the centuries, we learned how to streamline the fermentation process and take out some of the less desirable ingredients. Now, technology has made large-batch fermentation even safer and easier, with precision temperature controls, advanced analysis implements, and other equipment that is helping meet the growing demand for these products in a safe manner.

A FOCUS ON TRANSPARENCY AND TRUST Large-scale recalls over the last 30 years have led to a decline in trust between consumers and the food industry. Another trend you can expect to see over the next year is members of the upper echelon of the food industry working to regain customers’ trust, realigning their values, and being more transparent overall.

THE USE OF forwarding OSMOSIS Forward osmosis is a “gentler” process by which to concentrate food, using less energy and no heat.