By: Amanda Wenzig, Business Development

As I was driving down the 101 on my way to the Natural Products Expo West at the Anaheim Convention Center, I couldn’t help but wonder what was in store for me? It was after all my first time attending this tradeshow, so naturally I was excited and a little nervous. Is the expo going to be similar to the Fancy Food Show I attended in January? How many people will be there, and who will I get to meet? Most importantly what are some of the trending products I’m going to have the opportunity to see, and taste?

When I arrived at the Natural Products Expo West all of my questions were answered, and my taste buds left satisfied. This show turned out to be similar to the Fancy Food Show in that both shows are large food tradeshows with lots of food variety and an abundance of exhibitors. Many of the natural, specialty products featured in the Fancy Food Show were also present at the Natural Products Expo.

The show had a great turn out, reaching over 60,000 industry professionals. Also in attendance were manufacturers, buyers, retailers, consultants, distributors, bloggers, moms, and even Ziggy Marley! Yes I got to meet him. The huge Anaheim Convention Center held an assortment of different exhibitors for people to visit including supplements, ingredients, health and beauty. A map was essential for me to find my way around.
        

The major trend I tasted, similar to the Fancy Food Show, was the healthy natural snack. “On the go” chips, popcorn, and kids snacks were among the most popular items I sampled. Several brands incorporated the ingredient quinoa, an ancient grain containing essential amino acids, good quantities of calcium, phosphorus, and iron. Naturally the Natural Products Expo West had an array of health conscious options that did not disappoint.