Top Food Manufacturing Trends in 2023

Posted on March 15, 2023 by Cedarstone Industry Team

As we begin the second quarter of 2023, it’s high time to discuss trends and factors that will shape the food industry in the coming months. What’s in the cards and what should you incorporate into your strategy to stay ahead of the curve? Let’s delve into the top food manufacturing trends in 2023.

food manufacturing process

What are the best food manufacturing industry trends?

If you want to stay competitive in 2023, you should keep an eye on the most important food manufacturing trends that will influence the industry and should also find their way to your strategy. What are they?

Greater importance of sustainable practices

People are becoming more and more aware that their consumption choices can have a tremendous impact on the environment.

As one of the food manufacturing industry trends in 2023, we can expect to see a growing importance of sustainable practices such as:

  • reducing food waste,
  • using renewable energy sources,
  • minimizing the use of harmful chemicals and pesticides.

This year, consumers will be choosing products that are more eco-friendly and will be even likely to pay a premium for them. Consequently, only food manufacturers who prioritize sustainability will be able to meet the growing demands of consumers.

Healthly food

Growing popularity of healthy foods

As consumers become more health-conscious, they frequently turn to quality ingredients that will contribute to their wellness. This food manufacturing trend is evident when looking at store shelves filled with plant-based, organic and GMO-free products.

Food manufacturers are developing new products that cater to these preferences. They come up with a variety of options that are low in sugar, salt, or fat, providing more vitamins and minerals at the same time.

Indispensability of plant-based products

As you probably know, the popularity of plant-based products has skyrocketed in recent years, and this food manufacturing industry trend won’t slow down in 2023.

Plant-based meats, dairy alternatives, and even seafood substitutes are becoming increasingly common on grocery store shelves. Food manufacturers are investing in research and development to create new and innovative plant-based products that appeal to a wide range of consumers thanks to being delicious, nutritious and more environmentally friendly.

The need to reduce food waste

Food waste is a significant problem worldwide, and the food manufacturing industry is no exception. In 2023, we expect to see a continued focus on reducing waste throughout the supply chain.

For this reason, many manufacturers will be optimizing production processes to improve storage and transportation practices, reduce spoilage, and find new uses for food byproducts.

The use of renewable energy

Solar, wind and hydro power sources are replacing traditional fossil fuels more and more frequently.

Thanks to the possibility of reducing carbon emissions and lowering production costs, companies are willingly investing in renewable energy. This allows them to meet consumer demand for eco-friendly and socially responsible products.

Growing popularity of automation and IoT

Automation and the Internet of Things (IoT) are one of the food manufacturing trends that are truly transforming the industry. 

From smart sensors that monitor production processes in real-time to automated packaging and labeling machines, these technologies are streamlining operations and improving efficiency. In 2023, we expect to see even more widespread adoption of automation and IoT as companies seek to reduce costs and operate more efficiently.

Optimization of supply chains

In 2023, optimization of supply chains is a prominent food and beverage manufacturing trend that will involve the use of advanced technology and data analytics to streamline the movement of goods, reduce inefficiencies in the supply chain and reduce operational costs in food manufacturing.

Manufacturers are increasingly relying on automation and predictive analytics to improve inventory management, reduce waste, and minimize transportation costs. Companies are also exploring new sourcing strategies to enhance supply chain resiliency. The focus on optimization of supply chains is a proof of the commitment to sustainability, efficiency, and delivering high-quality products to consumers.

The takeaway

The food manufacturing industry is evolving rapidly, driven by changing consumer preferences and technological advancements. From sustainable practices and plant-based products to the use of renewable energy and automation, described food manufacturing trends 2023 are likely to shape the sector.

As a stainless steel equipment manufacturer with over 20 years of experience in the industry, we’re thrilled to play a role in this transformation by providing your company with the tools and food processing equipment you need to stay ahead of the curve. Contact us today to learn more!