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Following a year of supply chain issues and inflation, Thanksgiving dinner could look a little different—and more expensive—this year. Consumer Reports found that turkey prices could go up anywhere from 10 to 15% this holiday season, while The New York Times wrote that this year’s Thanksgiving feast could be the “most expensive meal in the history of the holiday.” And price isn’t the only change.

Shannon Falconer explains why animal-based pet foods are a problem, and looks at the future of alternatives for our furry friends.

Swiss Miss Hot Cocoa, a brand of Chicago-based Conagra Brands Inc., announced its limited-edition ultimate “ugly” sweater. The festive sweater is designed with an insulated pocket and zipper to keep a thermos of Swiss Miss Hot Cocoa warm and toasty all night long, the company says.

Whole Foods Market is sharing the predictions of the top trends that will be popping up in grocery aisles in 2022. The council that unveils these details is made up of more than 50 Whole Foods team members. They base their predictions on product sourcing and studying consumer preferences.

There continues to be sweet snacking options on the market which have reduced saturated fat and sugar. In terms of flavor trends, “niche fruits” including guava, lime, peach and yuzu are appealing to a wider audience. Meanwhile, cheese flavors in ice cream are marrying sweet and salty for elevated decadence.

A team of UW–Madison researchers set out to help solve the problem of foodborne pathogens, collaborating with meat industry advisor Bob Hanson and representatives from numerous industry partners. The group also shared the results of their effort to design, test, and validate a new processing method known as hydrated surface lethality (HSL).

Microgreens with antioxidant compounds are gaining wide popularity as a functional food. According to a US study, these tiny plants could unlock nutrition challenges, such as being used as an emergency resource in catastrophe situations, or even food for long-term space missions.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture has announced 13 new members and 17 returning members to the National Advisory Committee on Microbiological Criteria for Foods. The newly appointed members serve a two-year term.

On April 23, 2021, sesame was added to the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act's list as a major food allergen. Starting on January 1, 2023, all products that contain sesame will be required to state that the allergen is present on the label. In this article, the decision is discussed as well as what the future might look like for additional allergens being added to the list.