CERMER at Natural Products Expo West 2025: Sustainability Meets Food Innovation
Each year, more than 60,000 food and beverage industry insiders, entrepreneurs, and visionaries gather in Anaheim, California, for the Natural Products Expo West—one of the world’s most influential trade shows in the natural and organic products space. A few days ago, the event once again set the stage for groundbreaking food trends, innovative wellness-driven products, and, most importantly, the rising demand for sustainable packaging solutions. CERMER, a pioneer in ceramic food packaging, kitchenware, and tableware, was at the heart of the conversation, demonstrating how natural materials like clay can align with the future of food.
Food as Modern Alchemy
One of the most defining trends of this year’s expo was “modern alchemy.” According to trendspotting research firm State, consumers are increasingly viewing food as a tool to enhance their health and well-being. It’s no longer enough for snacks and meals to be tasty—they must also be functional, supporting hydration, immunity, and gut health. The demand for functional ingredients has soared, with consumers scrutinizing labels for added nutritional benefits rather than just calorie counts.
Matcha, for instance, emerged as one of the most celebrated ingredients at the expo. This finely ground green tea powder, rich in antioxidants and naturally boosting metabolism, has been incorporated into a variety of new recipes, from Matcha Buttercream Cakes to Matcha Mochi and even plant-based Matcha Ice Cream. With such nutrient-rich creations gaining popularity, food brands are increasingly looking for packaging that preserves their integrity. CERMER’s ceramic containers provide an inert, natural storage option, ensuring that these delicate flavors and health properties remain intact.
Made from natural clay, CERMER’s ceramic food packaging enhances the food experience, aligning with the broader wellness and sustainability movements shaping the industry today.
The Rise of Plant-Based 2.0
The plant-based movement has been evolving rapidly, shifting towards cleaner, simpler ingredient lists. Gone are the days when plant-based options were merely a meat alternative—the new wave of products emphasizes whole, minimally processed ingredients that closely mimic traditional textures and flavors. Innovations like cashew-based cheese, pea-protein yogurts, and jackfruit BBQ dishes were highlights of this year’s expo, offering a more authentic and nutritious plant-based experience.
CERMER’s ceramic packaging is an ideal solution for these forward-thinking brands. Unlike plastic, which can leach chemicals into food, CERMER’s sustainable ceramic containers provide a safe and pure environment, enhancing both shelf-life and presentation. Imagine an artisanal almond ricotta, freshly packed in an elegant ceramic pot—functional, beautiful, and entirely in line with today’s consumer expectations.
With more brands embracing nutrient-dense, high-protein products, sustainable packaging is more crucial than ever. CERMER’s clay-based packaging is a natural fit for these emerging trends, preserving both the nutritional integrity and the environmental responsibility that consumers demand.
The Evolution of Snacking
Healthy snacking was another major theme at Expo West. The once-maligned category of snacks has transformed into a vehicle for functional nutrition. Brands are focusing on gut-friendly ingredients, prebiotic-infused treats, and even protein-packed chips. Meanwhile, dried fruit brands, particularly those featuring exotic varieties like dragon fruit and persimmon, continue to gain traction.
CERMER’s individual-sized ceramic containers offer the perfect packaging for such innovations. Whether it’s probiotic-rich coconut yogurt or an indulgent but nutrient-dense chia pudding, ceramic packaging enhances the experience by maintaining freshness and adding a premium touch.
Korean Cuisine Spices Things Up
Another vibrant trend dominating the show floor was the continued rise of Korean cuisine. Fermented foods like kimchi, gochujang-based sauces, and Korean-inspired plant-based alternatives are gaining popularity, not just for their bold flavors but for their probiotic benefits as well. The health-conscious consumer appreciates both the taste and functionality of these ingredients, making them a perfect fit for the modern wellness movement. CERMER’s commitment to natural, non-reactive packaging makes it an ideal companion for these intensely flavored and nutrient-rich foods. Kimchi, for example, benefits from ceramic fermentation pots, which have been used in traditional Korean food preparation for centuries. As brands look to modernize and scale these ancient practices, ceramic remains a material of choice.
The Bigger Picture: Packaging Matters
Perhaps the most important takeaway from Expo West 2025 is that sustainable packaging is no longer an afterthought—it’s an essential part of the consumer experience. The shift towards clean, natural, and nutritious food must be reflected in the materials used to package them. As consumers demand transparency and sustainability at every level, brands that embrace responsible packaging solutions will stand out.
Expo West 2025 made it clear: the future of food is about more than just what we eat—it’s about how it’s made, how it benefits our health, and how it’s packaged. As food brands continue to innovate with functional ingredients, plant-based alternatives, and protein-rich options, the need for sustainable, high-quality packaging grows ever stronger. CERMER stands at the intersection of these trends, providing a natural, responsible way to package the foods of tomorrow.
With sustainability at its core, CERMER is not just keeping up with the trends—it’s shaping them. And as the industry moves forward, one thing is certain: the way we eat is changing, and the way we package our food must evolve with it.
