Key Learnings from ANUGA 2025: Innovation, Sustainability & Global Reach
ANUGA 2025, held in Cologne, Germany, attracted over 145,000 visitors from 190 countries and featured 8,000+ exhibitors. The event highlighted several transformative themes:
- Sustainable Packaging: Aluminum-free cartons, monomaterial cheese packs, and connected packaging solutions dominated the floor.
- Global Trade Expansion: Countries like South Africa used the platform to secure international partnerships, showcasing natural juices, honeybush tea, and vegetable-based coffee.
- Alternative Proteins & Food Tech: The Anuga HORIZON Stage featured experts discussing vertical farming, plant-based innovation, and food tech breakthroughs.
- Organic & Plant-Based Focus: The “Organic on Stage” area emphasized EU goals for 30% organic land use by 2030 and spotlighted non-GMO product development.
Top 5 Food Trends Shaping 2025 and Beyond
The food industry is evolving rapidly, and the following trends—many of which were spotlighted at ANUGA 2025—are expected to dominate in 2026 and 2027:
🌱 Plant-Based Everything
From meat alternatives to dairy-free innovations, plant-based products continue to surge. Expect more refined textures, regional flavors, and functional benefits.
🔥 “Swicy” & Hyper-Spicy Foods
Sweet-meets-spicy (“swicy”) flavors are trending globally, with ghost pepper snacks and spicy condiments gaining traction.
🧠 Gut Health & Functional Foods
Consumers are prioritizing wellness with fermented foods, adaptogenic ingredients, and AI-personalized nutrition plans.
🌍 Sustainability & Zero-Waste Cooking
Edible packaging, upcycled ingredients, and carbon-conscious supply chains are becoming industry standards.
🍄 Mushroom Mania
Exotic mushrooms like lion’s mane and cordyceps are being used in everything from meat substitutes to brain-boosting beverages.
Why Attend SIAL 2026 & ANUGA 2027?
- Discover Global Trends before they hit mainstream shelves.
- Meet Decision-Makers from retail, foodservice, and manufacturing.
- Explore Innovations in packaging, sustainability, and nutrition.
- Join Expert Panels on AI, CSR, and supply chain transformation.
- Meet us, Kühne, the most friendly team, picked with competent pickle connoisseurs🥒👑 😉
📌 Save the Dates
- SIAL Paris 2026: October 17–21, Paris Nord Villepinte
- ANUGA Cologne 2027: October 9–13, Koelnmesse, Cologne