Page 3 - FMT December

Have a Happy Virtual Holiday Dear Readers,
This issue heralds the end of a year which none of us could have The year has been a roller coaster for everyone.
expected, much less planned for. Instead of writing about novelties It helped us register the series of special events
in technology or packaging and the latest developments in in our history of life for years to come. The global
ingredients such as flavours, colours and dietary fibre, we are left pandemic had seen losses in the industry, but it had
wondering about what we can expect at all in 2021. As we have said also succoured many businesses to resuscitate their
before, the Covid-19 crisis has helped us to redefine our priorities prolonged idea of the concept “going concern”. In this
and to weigh up what is essential to life and what is merely turmoil, business has gained and lost, but the food
important. Some things have changed which are good to hold on. industry moulded itself according to the situation.
Other things we have not missed, so we can let them go. The beverage industry has seen a huge spike in the
packaged tetra packed juices, and other natural
Despite all attempts to make them work, all major exhibitions have drinks that people have started to consume basing
been postponed or changed to a virtual version. As I write, some their concerns of increasing immunity. Adding to the
upcoming fairs are being planned and others are being put back immunity, immuno boosters have also been a game
again. Of course we recognise the benefits of an in-person fair, but changing category. People are more and more inclined
there are also benefits to an on-line event, for example from the in the vicinity of monopolizing health over everything
educational aspect. For some organisers a hybrid exhibition is an that they choose to consume. This has also helped the
alternative. I am someone who sees and recognises the advantages frozen food industry to show their hidden talents of
of face-to-face appointments or unplanned meetings in the aisle how a food can be nutritious and remain intact even
or restaurant, so I find it difficult to relate to a virtual show. But I when they are frozen for a consequential period.
remain open and hope someone will find the right formula. Moreover, this edition showcases an interview from
The next big question for the next year is how our personal and Soulful India, where they tell us the importance and
societal safety can be improved. A vaccine against Covid-19 virus the incredible potential the millet ragi has, which is
is getting closer, even though it is questionable whether it is has also a dominant ingredient in their products. They
really been adequately tested. People are rightly respectful of share how they are trying to bring the trend back
the dangers of crowds and closeness to people outside their own as consumers are becoming more and more robust.
bubble, and this looks likely to continue for the foreseeable future. We also introduce Home Foods, an Indian Frozen
Food brand that helps transport the proposition of
All of this brings us to the end of the year 2020. Travel for the preserved food and plan to bring many more varieties
holiday season is not recommended, which means we will miss under the dinner, lunch and breakfast category.
seeing some of our loved ones and sharing the special times with
them, at least physically. Thanks to modern communication These brands also address, as to how the pandemic is
technology, we at least have the option of a virtual time together. also opening new doors in the Food industry and it is
efficient if the sector is committed to the future aspect
The food industry will continue to innovate. Food will get safer and of the cause post-pandemic.
healthier, packaging will become more sustainable and machinery
more efficient. We will continue to write about it and follow the Christmas is around the corner and this month marks
trends. That much we can at least promise for 2021. the beginning of fresh new advancements in the year
2021. The family of Food Marketing & Technology
All the very best wishes to all our readers. We hope you keep safe Magazine wishes a safe and pandemic-free year.
and stay sane,
Sincerely,

Benno Keller Ian D. Healey
keller@ harnisch.com healey@harnisch.com Linda Brady Hawke