5 Insights: Could Lab-Grown Chicken Be the Future of Food?

The Rise of Lab-Grown Chicken
Lab-grown chicken, once a science fiction concept, is now becoming a reality. The FDA approved Upside Foods’ lab-grown poultry in November 2022, and by 2023, Good Meat started selling it in Singapore. This process involves taking cells from an egg or live animal and cultivating them in a vat, much like brewing. These cells grow into chicken meat, which can be shaped into cuts like chicken breast. As more companies enter the space, the question becomes: will consumers need to identify whether their chicken is grown in a lab or from traditional farming? Many may prefer to know whether their meal is a product of nature or science.

Grocery Stores in Washington Allow Dogs—But With Rules
Shoppers in Washington state are seeing more dogs in grocery stores due to updated guidelines. Grocers must follow certain protocols, including obtaining state approval and posting signs that dogs are allowed. However, there are limitations: dogs are prohibited from being on furniture or in contact with ready-to-eat foods. With the growing popularity of dog-friendly grocery experiences, some consumers are wondering if this could lead to more incidents or complaints.

Wegmans Launches a Better-For-You Soda: Wonder Pop

After discontinuing its WPOP soda brand in 2021, Wegmans has introduced a healthier alternative, Wonder Pop. This new soda competes with brands like Olipop and Poppi and comes in flavors like cream soda and cola. It’s organic, prebiotic, probiotic, and contains fruit purees and juices. Early reviews are positive, and new customers are starting to explore the product, signaling a potential trend toward more health-conscious beverage options in supermarkets.

Courtesy of Wonder Pop

Halloween Candy Hits Shelves Early
Iowa stores have jumped the gun by stocking Halloween candy months in advance. With Reese’s peanut butter cups and other candy already available, stores are trying to capitalize on the early holiday rush. Although it seems premature, experts note that such early holiday product placements aren’t unusual, with stores also starting back-to-school and Christmas items earlier each year. Consumers might find themselves indulging in Halloween candy and Christmas scents long before the respective holidays arrive.

Shaq’s Sweet Comeback with Shaq-a-licious XL Gummies

Basketball legend Shaquille O’Neal is making headlines again, not for his basketball skills but for his candy promotion. Shaq made a surprise appearance at a Walmart in Doral, Florida, to promote his new candy, Shaq-a-licious XL gummies. With over 100 people in attendance, Shaq handed out samples of the gummies, which come in flavors like peach, mixed berry, and watermelon. His sweet treats are set to hit shelves in September, and his surprise appearance has created buzz around the candy line.

Courtesy of Shaq-a-licious

These insights highlight how innovations in food, consumer behavior, and celebrity-driven promotions continue to shape the grocery industry.