Elisa Louis and Jessica Warden recapped their experience at ExpoWest 2025 and there was no shortage of excitement. Smirk’s had a strong presence, not only at the main show but also at the Fresh Ideas Organic Marketplace and the SoCal IFT Show.

The event itself was bustling, drawing 70,000 attendees and 3,000 exhibitors, with a condensed, mid-week schedule that kept the energy high.

Elisa and Jessica dove deep into major trends shaking up the organic and natural foods world. Listen for more details regarding: 

Protein Reigns Supreme Protein-packed everything stole the show. Highlights include pasta sauces and overnight oats to pretzels and even meat snacks. Interestingly, there was a noticeable uptick in real meat products alongside traditional plant-based offerings.

Egg Innovations Eggs and egg replacements were everywhere. Plant-based "hardboiled eggs" made from almonds and cashews wowed attendees, along with clever egg replacement ingredients like steamed chickpea flour.

Functional Foods & GLP-1 Friendly Products With a surge in consumer interest around wellness, foods rich in fiber, protein, and gut-friendly ingredients were trending. Brands are already calling out GLP-1 friendliness on labels, catering to new diet trends sparked by medications like Ozempic.

Global Fusion & Chaos Cooking From miso-infused veggie chips to Indian-inspired lemonade and Korean kimchi salsa, global flavors dominated. The "chaos cooking" trend of blending cuisines without traditional rules was clearly alive and well.

Gut Health & Functional Beverages Fermentation, probiotics, and drinkable multivitamins were strong players. Functional waters with adaptogens and non-alcoholic craft beverages also made a huge splash, proving that "better-for-you" drinks are here to stay.

Nostalgia Meets Innovation From root beer float-flavored popcorn to revamped Rice Krispie treats made with quinoa and brown rice, nostalgic flavors brought a fun, playful vibe across the show floor. The retro theme wasn’t just reflected in products, but in nostalgic branding too.

Sustainability Front and Center Upcycled ingredients like imperfect rice, regenerative organic certifications, compostable packaging, and eco-friendly household products were everywhere, signaling a deepening commitment to sustainability.

The overall vibe of the show is best described as contagious energy, endless innovation, and plenty of surprises (including getting locked out of their rental house!). ExpoWest 2025 didn't disappoint, it inspired.

April 2025 Market Report:

Due to recent announcements from the U.S. government regarding potential new reciprocal tariffs on goods imported globally, Smirk’s is holding off on issuing a detailed market update.

There is too much uncertainty about which countries and which ingredients will be affected, so no official market information will be provided this month.

Smirk’s recommends staying connected through LinkedIn and subscribing to the Smirk’s newsletter for real-time updates as the situation evolves.

Want Smirk’s help sourcing ingredients spotted at ExpoWest? Connect at smirks.com.

In this episode host Elisa Louis dives deep into the world of co-packers with guests Jason Luedtke, Director of Business Development at ZoRoCo Packaging, and Garrett McBride, VP of Operations at Smirk’s. This insightful conversation sheds light on the vital role co-packers play in the food and beverage industry and how businesses can establish successful partnerships.

Topics Covered:

·         Understanding the Co-Packing Landscape

·         Co-Packer vs. Co-Manufacturer: What’s the Difference?

·         How to Build a Successful Co-Packer Relationship

Factors for Success:

• Transparency – Open communication about expectations, capabilities, and potential challenges.
• Quality Assurance – Ensuring food safety and regulatory compliance through strong auditing and quality control processes.
• Operational Fit – Matching the co-packer’s capabilities with the brand’s needs, including equipment compatibility and allergen restrictions.
• Scalability – Aligning production capacity with business growth to avoid overproduction or inventory shortages.
• Geographic Considerations – Choosing a co-packer located near key distribution hubs to minimize logistics costs.

Challenges and Solutions in Co-Packing Partnerships

• Early Issue Resolution: Address problems proactively through consistent communication.
• Written Agreements: Establish clear contracts outlining responsibilities and performance expectations.
• Knowing When to Move On: If a partnership consistently fails to meet needs, it may be time to seek a better fit.

Trends in the Co-Packing Industry

• Rising Demand for Protein: Consumers seek innovative, plant-based, and alternative protein sources.
• Traceability and Sustainability: Increased focus on regenerative agriculture and ethical sourcing.
• Clean Label and Allergen-Free Products: More brands prioritize transparent ingredient lists and allergen-friendly manufacturing.
• Regulatory Compliance: A shift towards natural color alternatives following FDA rulings on artificial dyes.

Market Report Minute: 1:12:03

For more insights, visit ZoRoCo Packaging

For real-time updates or to explore solutions, contact Smirks at what'[email protected].

In Episode 15 of Get the Scoop with Smirks, Elisa Louis shares the Smirk’s team commitment to Quality Assurance (QA).  As a leading supplier of conventional and organic ingredients, Smirk’s relies on the QA team to uphold the highest standards in food safety and quality, ensuring trusted partnerships with both suppliers and customers. This episode features QA Director Tara Hettinger, Operations Manager Garrett McBride, and QA team members Danielle Duff and Kelsey Malone, who share their experiences and perspectives on the vital work they do every day.

The Foundation of Quality Assurance at Smirks

Tara Hettinger, who leads the QA team, outlines how their mission extends beyond simply meeting food safety standards; they strive to build strong, transparent partnerships. Smirks manages an astonishing 60,000 supplier documents, which include detailed quality and food safety certifications, and ensures every piece aligns with their rigorous standards.

The QA team prioritizes transparency, a core value that sets Smirk’s apart in the industry. As Tara noted, they are meticulous in vetting suppliers to ensure customers receive reliable, high-quality ingredients. She explains that being detailed and organized means the team can respond to customer needs efficiently, especially during audits or urgent requests,” she added.

On-Site Visits: A Hands-On Approach to Quality

Garrett McBride shared his passion for supplier site visits, which he described as both rewarding and essential. Known within Smirk’s as the "food safety and quality assurance boogeyman," Garrett explained how these visits allow him to verify supplier practices and identify any risks that might not appear in paperwork.

During these visits, Garrett scrutinizes everything from pest control measures to process documentation, ensuring suppliers meet Smirks' high standards. These face-to-face interactions build reliable partnerships, allow us to verify their practices which ensures we can trust the folks we choose to do business with.

Garrett also highlighted the sheer scale of Smirks’ operations, with 130 items sourced from 180 suppliers across 27 countries. This level of oversight requires a collaborative effort, making the QA team's diligence critical to the company's success.

Meet the People Behind the QA Process

Danielle Duff and Kelsey Malone shared their personal journeys and how their backgrounds shaped their roles at Smirks. Danielle, a food science graduate, is passionate about food safety and nutrition. She described how her family’s tradition of canning and growing food inspired her love for food science. Her meticulous approach helps ensure the quality and safety of Smirks’ products, which she sees as a direct way to protect consumers.

Kelsey Malone, who transitioned from healthcare to QA, talked about the steep learning curve when she joined Smirks. Initially an administrative assistant, Kelsey quickly embraced the complexity of QA processes and found satisfaction in tackling detailed documentation to ensure quality standards are met. 

The dedication and passion of Danielle and Kelsey underscore Smirks’ commitment to quality and transparency. 

The Smirks QA team revealed the immense effort that goes into ensuring food safety and building trust with customers and suppliers. Tara discussed the challenges of the job, explaining that even with rigorous processes, unexpected issues can arise. Mitigating risks and documentation may seem boring but the team finds the work rewarding knowing that they are protecting their customers and ultimately the end consumers. 

November 2024 Market Report 

Navigating a Volatile Market: Key Updates from Smirks

In the November 2024 Market Report, Smirks provided updates on key ingredient categories, highlighting both challenges and opportunities. Here's a snapshot of the trends shaping the industry:

1. Pumpkin Seeds: Supply Challenges Ahead

• Conventional pumpkin kernels are at historic low prices due to high yields in China.

• Organic pumpkin supply faces contamination issues, leading to the conversion of organic inventory to conventional.

Recommendation: Secure 2025 organic pumpkin seed volumes now to mitigate risk.

2. Sunflower: Widespread Drought Shrinks Supply

• Eastern European droughts have led to a 25% reduction in crop estimates, straining global availability.

Recommendation: Lock in 2025 sunflower seed contracts as availability will tighten further.

3. Chia: Organic Supplies Under Pressure

• While conventional chia supply remains strong, organic inventories are shrinking due to herbicide testing failures.

Recommendation: Quickly secure 2025 organic chia to avoid potential shortages.

4. Coconut: Prices Spike Amid Weather Extremes

• El Nino patterns and typhoons have led to smaller kernel sizes and disrupted supply chains.

Outlook: Expect delays and higher prices through the next six months.

5. Tree Nuts: Limited Supply Across the Board

• Walnuts: Organic options are nearly impossible to source, and prices are climbing.

• Cashews: Rain in Vietnam and depleted raw stocks have tightened supply, with a late crop expected.

• Macadamias: Efforts in Kenya aim to stabilize the market, but China’s growing demand keeps prices high.

Summary: The market remains volatile, driven by environmental factors, demand fluctuations, and political instability. Stay ahead by collaborating with Smirks to secure your supply chain for 2025.

For real-time updates or to explore solutions, contact Smirks at what'[email protected].

In this episode of Get the Scoop with Smirks podcast, hosts Elisa Lewis and Garrett McBride delve into the intricacies of the Northern Hemisphere's fall harvest. As a leading supplier of organic and conventional bulk ingredients, Smirks closely monitors the global markets to provide timely insights into various crops. 

This episode sheds light on pumpkin seeds, chia seeds, sunflower seeds, oats, and California nuts—specifically almonds and walnuts. Additionally, Garrett offers a comprehensive market report on coconut, flax, and ocean freight rates.

Pumpkin Seeds from China

China, which accounts for about 70% of global pumpkin seed production, has significantly increased its planting acreage this year. The harvest began in late August and wrapped up in late September, showing a strong supply and low export demand. Speculators have largely stayed away, leading to softened markets and favorable conditions for buyers.

Chia Seeds from Paraguay

 A late summer drought affected the northern growing region, impacting what was expected to be a bumper crop. This year's crop is anticipated to be closer to a 50-50 split between organic and conventional chia seeds, deviating from the typical 30% organic. Shipments have slowed due to low water levels in the Paraguay River to ocean ports. 

Sunflower Seeds from Eastern Europe and the USA

Eastern Europe faced a brutally hot summer, leading to severe crop damage and reduced yield and quality. In the U.S. planting for kernel crops is estimated to be down by around 30% compared to last year. With limited supply and increasing demand, markets are firming up, making immediate contracting advisable.

Oats from Canada

The Canadian prairies experienced optimal weather, resulting in a strong harvest yield compared to last year. While the yield is strong, there are some concerns about the oats being lighter in weight. Smirks encourages companies looking for product to contract now for next year's coverage, including gluten-free and regenerative organic certified options.

California Nuts: Almonds and Walnuts

With the excellent weather during the bloom and increased bee flight hours Smirk’s is seeing promising crop. Despite a smaller crop last year and minimal carry-in, rising global demand is pushing prices up. Smirks is actively closing contracts for California tree nuts for 2025 and recommends clients lock in their positions soon.

Coconut Market Report

The El Niño weather conditions reduced both the size of coconuts and the overall crop globally, causing supply chain gaps and driving prices up to levels seen during the COVID-19 pandemic. Diversifying supply chains and securing coverage through Q2 of 2025 is advised to mitigate risks. Similar supply challenges are affecting coconut sugar due to El Niño and early Ramadan in 2024. Cashew markets remain firm with increasing prices.

Smirks' deep connections with suppliers and their commitment to monitoring these markets provide invaluable insights for businesses relying on these ingredients.

For those in the industry, now is a critical time to assess your fall crop needs. Whether you're a regular user or new to organic or conventional pumpkin seeds, chia seeds, sunflower seeds, oats, or California almonds and walnuts, Smirks is equipped to help you navigate these complex markets.

Thank you for joining us in exploring the 2024 fall harvest insights. We look forward to keeping you informed on the latest market trends and helping you make the best purchasing decisions for your business.

If you haven't already, subscribe to the Get the Scoop with Smirks podcast to receive immediate access to each new episode. For personalized assistance, reach out to Smirks at [email protected]. 

October Market Report

Coconut Market

• Strong market volatility in coconut is expected to persist through Q1 2025 due to reduced crop sizes caused by El Niño.

• Smaller crop and reduced nut size have led to supply chain gaps and rising prices, with levels comparable to those seen during COVID-19.

Country-Specific Updates

• Philippines: Significant production reductions, with some nuts up to 50% smaller. Some suppliers may cut production on open orders by up to 30%. Full recovery expected by April 2025.

• Sri Lanka: Crop reduced by 40%, with prices rising due to a shortage. Improvements not expected until at least April 2025.

• Indonesia: High demand from Chinese buyers drove price increases. Tight supply expected until at least Q2 of 2025.

• Vietnam: Reliable shipping thus far, but prices have increased significantly. Relief may come in November/December 2024.

Recommendations

• Secure coverage through Q2 of 2025 to guarantee supply while maintaining flexibility if market conditions improve.

• Diversify supply chains with multiple origins to mitigate risk.

Coconut Sugar Market

• Supply chains were heavily impacted in Indonesia, causing a raw material shortage and price increases by 30%.

• Early Ramadan in 2024 further strained the supply chain. Similar issues are expected for Ramadan 2025 (Feb 28 - Mar 29).

• The 2024 implementation of new NOP organic rules caused additional delays in shipments.

• Outlook Market recovery is expected by Q2 2025, but caution is advised due to ongoing supply chain issues and high prices.

Cashew Market

• Firm Prices: Prices have increased, especially in Vietnam, where both raw cashew nut and FOB prices have gone up by about $0.10 per pound.

• Organic Cashews: Processors are running low on organic nuts, contributing to rising prices.

• Smirks is actively booking contracts for the first half of 2025. Early contracting is advised due to ongoing price volatility.

Sunflower Market

• USA sunflower kernel prices have risen sharply due to increased demand linked to East Coast port strikes.

• Domestic bakery kernels are already tight, and further price increases are expected as demand rises.

• Stay in close contact for real-time updates on sunflower kernel availability and market conditions.

Overall Recommendations

• For coconut, coconut sugar, and cashews, securing partial coverage through Q2 2025 is recommended to ensure supply while keeping options open for price adjustments if the market improves.

• Keep an eye on ongoing developments, especially for sunflowers, where port strikes and supply issues may further impact pricing.

Market Report 1:05:03

In the latest episode of "Get the Scoop with Smirk’s," hosts Jessica Warden and Zach Schwindt took us on a deep dive into the top 10 bakery trends for 2024. As industry experts who live and breathe baked goods, Jessica and Zach not only shared their insights but also gave us a glimpse of how Smirk’s, a leading supplier of organic and conventional bulk bakery ingredients, is at the forefront of these trends. Here's a breakdown of the key takeaways from their engaging discussion in a top 10 countdown format:

 10. Vanilla: A Nostalgic Favorite

9. 3D Printing: The Future of Baking

8. Alternate Sweeteners 

7. Social Media's Influence on Bakery Trends

6. Gluten Free Bakery Items 

5. Functional Foods 

4. Seeds and Seed Flours

3. High Protein Baked Goods 

2. Plant-Based and Vegan Baked Goods 

1. Sustainability, Upcycled Ingredients and a Resurgence of Organic

This episode of "Get the Scoop with Smirks" not only provides a comprehensive look at the trends shaping the future of the bakery industry but also showcased how Smirks is leading the way with innovative products and solutions. Whether you're a professional baker or a home baking enthusiast, staying on top of these trends will ensure you’re ahead of the curve in 2024.

 Navigating Supply Chain Challenges

Garrett McBride, along with his colleagues Jessica Warden and Zach Schwint, delved into the complexities of supply chain management and how Smirks continues to add value for its customers in an ever-evolving market. Here’s a closer look at the key topics they discuss in detail:

·         Strategic Risk Management and Cost Optimization

·         Flexibility in Contracting and Supply Chain Diversification

·         Responding to Global Challenges: El Niño and Beyond

·         The Importance of Prior Planning and Industry Expertise

This episode of *Get the Scoop with Smirks* underscores the value of having a trusted partner like Smirks in the complex world of ingredient supply chains. From strategic risk management to navigating global challenges, Smirks continues to demonstrate its commitment to helping customers succeed, no matter what the market throws their way. 

August 2024 Smirks Market Report Highlights

The August 2024 Smirks Market Report provides crucial insights into the current state of the global ingredient markets, with a focus on ocean freight challenges, weather impacts, and crop conditions. Here are the key takeaways:

Ocean Freight Issues

·     Sunflower Market

·     Pumpkin Market

·Coconut Market

·    Coconut Sugar

·  Chia Market

·      Mango Market

·      Cashew Market

Macadamia Market

·     The Smirk’s team advises customers to act quickly on securing contracts and planning for supply needs into 2025, especially given the ongoing global challenges. For more detailed information or specific inquiries, reach out to the Smirk’s team for support.

 Contact Smirk's:  hello@smirk's.com

In episode 12 of "Get the Scoop with Smirks," hosts Zach Schwint and Garrett McBride dive into the evolving landscape of the pet food industry. Fresh from their debut at the Pet Food Forum in Kansas City, they discuss current trends, ingredient innovations, and future directions for the industry. They also highlight the various bulk ingredients Smirks offers for pet food manufacturers and share insights on market demands and product development.

Market Growth and Trends

 The U.S. pet food market, valued at $43.9 billion in 2023, is expected to reach nearly $60 billion by 2032. Key drivers include premium pet food products focusing on overall wellness, healthy aging, and good digestion.

Innovation in pet food is booming, with a significant portion coming from new companies that have emerged in the last five years. Interestingly, Mintel Insights indicates there's even more new product development and innovation going on in the pet food industry, 50 % of which is for dogs and cats, than in human food.

Sustainability and Functional Foods

There are trends in the pet food industry that mirror what Smirk’s sees in the human food industry including a growing emphasis on sustainable practices, such as recyclable packaging and upcycled ingredients. Pet food facilities are increasingly powered by renewable energy.

Pet owners are also looking for functional pet food products focusing on better gut health are trending. Ingredients like quinoa flakes, pumpkin powder, and psyllium husk are in demand for their digestive benefits. The days of a few brands of kibble are long gone!

Ingredient Innovation

Plant-based proteins, such as pea protein and pumpkin protein powder, are becoming popular in pet food. Gluten-free and non-gluten-free options cater to various dietary needs. Some pet owners are getting DNA tests to determine the best diet for their family pet so options for all types of conditions are being considered.

Fruits and vegetables like banana, apple, strawberry, sweet potato, and potato starch are commonly used in pet foods. Alternative sweeteners like coconut sugar and functional oils like coconut and flaxseed oil are also gaining traction.

Ingredient benefits and versatility are key for pet food producers, and we discuss ingredients that Smirks offers for animal and pet food and pet treats. These items are typically offered in non -GMO conventional and organic formats.

1. Coconut Products

  Coconut is a major ingredient in pet food beneficial for dogs. Smirks offers a range of coconut products, including desiccated coconut, coconut sugar, and coconut flour. Coconut oils, such as virgin coconut oil and MCT oil, are noted for keeping pets' coats shiny and healthy.

2. Seeds

   Flax seeds, chia, sunflower seeds, and quinoa flakes are highlighted for their nutritional benefits in pet food. Flax seeds are available in various forms, while chia seeds are noted for their digestive health benefits. Sunflower seeds are a cost-effective nutritious option, and quinoa flakes are easier for dogs to digest.

3. Plant-Based Proteins and Grains

 Plant-based proteins like pea, sunflower, pumpkin, and rice protein powders are increasingly used as substitutes for animal proteins. Smirks also deals in various grains and starches, many of which are gluten-free, such as sorghum, tapioca, and cassava flour, providing fiber and protein for pets.

4. Dried Fruits

  Smirks stocks a variety of dried fruits, including apples, pineapple, mango, cranberries, and banana chips, which are used in pet foods and treats to add nutrition and fiber.

Monthly Market Report June 2024

Here's the latest update on ocean freight and key commodity trends impacting the pet food and treat industry.

Ocean Freight Updates

Ocean freight rates from Southeast Asia have surged to $7,000-$8,000 and are expected to exceed $10,000 by the end of summer. These rates were just $1,500-$3,000 a few months ago. This drastic increase is primarily due to equipment shortages triggered by disruptions like the Suez Canal blockage. Higher freight prices and shipment delays are anticipated throughout 2024. Even with contracts, there are no guarantees of equipment availability when products are ready to load, making it challenging to hedge freight costs.

Coconut Products Prices for coconut products have skyrocketed due to El Niño-induced extreme heat and drought in the Philippines. Supplies are tight, with limited offers for the end of 2024. Vietnam presents a viable alternative with ready-to-ship supplies at comparable prices to previous offers from the Philippines.

Cashews The cashew market is under pressure due to a shorter crop and an export ban on raw cashew nuts (RCN) from Ivory Coast. This has led to significant price increases and tight supply, with quality concerns adding to the challenges.

Pumpkin Seeds Prices for pumpkin seeds are decreasing due to large plantings in China. However, the benefits are offset by rising ocean freight costs, which diminish the savings from lower origin prices.

Overall Market Outlook

Expect higher prices and shipment delays across many commodities. For coconut, Vietnam is a recommended source due to more stable supply. For cashews, immediate action is advised to secure coverage due to tight market conditions. Despite lower prices at origin for pumpkin seeds, ocean freight costs continue to impact overall savings.

For more detailed insights or to secure supplies, connect with Smirks through our website or email us at [email protected]

The Smirk’s team is breaking down Expo West, the largest natural and organic products trade show in the US. It happens every March in Anaheim and this year Smirk’s had 11 people attending to see what’s new and connect with some of the 65,000 people who attend. 

Jessica Warden and Zach Schwindt join Garrett McBride to review the highlights.  

TRENDS and INNOVATIONS

• Regenerative Organic (RO) Certification - RO certified products were widespread, indicating a growing trend towards regenerative agricultural practices. 

• Functional Foods - The trend of functional foods continued, with an emphasis on products promoting gut health and incorporating ingredients like adaptogens. 

• Alternative Sweeteners - There was a shift towards natural sweeteners such as coconut sugar, date sugar, and stevia in various food and beverage products.

• Plant-Based Alternatives - Plant-based products were prominent, including innovative alternatives like plant-based bacon made from seasoned shredded coconut.

• Nostalgic Flavors - Brands showcase nostalgic flavors in innovative products, appealing to consumers' childhood memories with modern twists.

• Eco-Friendly Products - A rise in eco-friendly products was observed, including shampoo and conditioner bars and thin soap sheets for laundry.

THE EXPO EXPERIENCE

• The hosts described the bustling atmosphere of Expo West, with crowded aisles and vibrant booths.

• The value of face-to-face interactions and networking opportunities is significant and one of the best reasons to participate. Smirk’s continues to connect with producers and potential partners.

• The overall experience was positive, with many new products and connections made.

GLUTEN-FREE BAKED GOODS

With the prevalence of alternative flours such as nut-based, seed-based and others, there is now a wide variety of options in the allergen-friendly bakery world. 

There's a particular focus on crackers, showcasing unique blends like buckwheat flour with cranberries and the use of ingredients like organic banana flour, hemp flour, cassava flour, and more.

Smirks offers a comprehensive range of organic and non-GMO seeds, nut butters, dried fruits, and alternative sweeteners like coconut sugar and maple syrup. They also emphasized their ability to meet specific customer needs, such as origin preferences and glycemic-friendly sweeteners.

MARKET REPORT

Donny Edson shares this month’s report and starts by covering the on-going delays due to shipping and freight issues. It’s likely to continue to take longer to get products, especially on the east coast. He recommends planning ahead keeping the adding longer shipping times to your forecasts.

On a good note, new shipping contracts that begin in May will have minimal price increases from last year, which is a big relief since prices were trending up. 

Donny also covers the new rules affecting the shipments of organic items and the need to have the proper certification filed with customs before picking up product. Smirk’s and others have run into issues and it’s causing delays until things can be sorted.

Big picture, things are getting tighter so planning ahead is recommended and expect price increases until availability improves.

Product specifics: 

• Desiccated coconuts which had been plentiful are now delayed. Processors are having trouble getting product so we’re seeing delays from six to eight weeks right now.

• We're seeing prices increase anywhere from 40 to 70%, depending on the origin and depending on the grade. If you're not covered through the end of the year on coconut, you should get covered immediately.

• Another issue is coconut sugar. As Ramadan ends, packers in Indonesia are concerned about the lack of raw material available to process Most packers are offering new shipments only in June and July forward with limited availability. 

• Stocks in the US are getting very tight, and the spot market is getting tight as well. We expect the shortages to happen and carry on throughout the summertime until new shipments in June and July arrive in the US.

• Coconut oil prices have risen anywhere from 20 to 30 % depending on if it's VCO or RBD. The demand in the US has been high as many people have delayed shipments. Bottlers are trying to get anything they can to keep the retail shelves full. 

• We don't anticipate the coconut oil price to correct itself for quite some time. Plan ahead. 

• Demand for organic cashews has increased. There’s little inventory and the new crop is slow arriving for processing. Two of the suppliers we work with are fully booked this year on their broken grades and whole grades. We expect this market to stay firm and to get tight. 

• Macadamia nuts are no longer the value they were last year. Supplies are booked out and we’ve seen price increases. The new crop should be in soon, and that should help with availability and better pricing. 

• Amaranth is finally shipping again. Prices have dropped, which is great to see and we hope they remain stable. 

• Organic flax is coming in as well. Prices are stable with reports that the crop is smaller and increased prices are anticipated throughout the summertime. Smirk’s has some organic golden flax arriving in May, so reach out if there’s a need. 

• Chia supplies in South America are sold out of the 2023 crop. The new crop could be late, so we’ll continue to watch and see what develops. There is a large stock of Chia available in the US right now. A lot of importers have extra inventory, including Smirk’s, to weather the storm. 

• Pumpkins seeds are available, and we don’t see any issues moving forward. The organic crop is smaller so it's highly recommended to cover yourself through December with your suppliers to ensure that you have enough product until the new crop arrives. 

That’s the April market update. If you have any questions or need more info on a specific product, hit us up at [email protected]

Hosts Elisa Louis and Donny Edson dive into the dynamic world of organics with the Organic Trade Association's (OTA) experts, Adrienne Messe and Scott Rice. Smirk’s Garrett McBride and Dean Soicher also share insights about the evolution of the organic products industry over the last 30 years. The popular market report completes this episode. 

The podcast covers key topics including regulatory updates, insights from the OTA's member survey and valuable resources for businesses dealing with organic products.

 Adrienne, the OTA's event engagement manager, shares details about the association's mission and its efforts to bring together diverse stakeholders in the organic industry. She emphasizes the importance of continuous improvement, citing the recent success of the Continuous Improvement and Accountability in Organic Standards Act. If you are in the market or have questions about any  natural food products, reach out at: [email protected]

 OTA Resources:

• Organic Trade Association
• The Organic Center
• OTA Member Benefits
• Farm Bill Priorities
• Continuous Improvement and Accountability in Organic Standards
• Strengthening Organic Enforcement
• OTA Member Communities
• Organic Opportunity Communications Toolkit
• Organic Fraud Prevention Guide
• Diversity and Entrepreneurship Program
• Organic Industry Survey
• Global Organic Trade Guide
• Organic Week in Washington D.C.
• Organic Education Webinars

·         USDA Certifier Locator

·         USDA Organic INTEGRITY Database

·         USDA Organic Insider

·         USDA SOE Final Rule Primers

Host Nick Erker shares the captivating history and origins of vanilla. Discover the incredible journey of this aromatic spice from its discovery in Mexico, its commercial production in Madagascar, to its status as the world's most popular ice cream flavor!

 As we explore the global vanilla market valued at $1.43 billion, we'll uncover the secrets behind its production, including the labor-intensive process of hand-pollinating vanilla orchids. Expert Zach Schwindt shares his personal journey in the world of vanilla, from backpacking through Asia to starting his own brand, Origin Vanilla. Smirk’s is happy to have Zach on the team since 2019, helping expand the vanilla product offerings.

Learn about the different forms of vanilla and why natural vanilla is a superior choice over imitation. Whether you're a food enthusiast or a culinary professional, this episode will provide valuable insights into the intricacies and unique qualities of vanilla beans. Join us now and get ready to indulge in the irresistible world of vanilla!

Smirk’s offers both organic and conventional vanilla products to their customers, ensuring that they can provide the right product at the right price.

Product Feature: Vanilla

●        Hear the fascinating story behind vanilla's history and origins and gain a deeper appreciation for this beloved flavor.

●        They explore the intriguing world of vanilla production and learn about the intricate techniques used to cultivate and process vanilla beans.

●        Learn the key differences between imitation vanilla and natural vanilla and understand why the latter is highly valued by food enthusiasts and culinary professionals.

●        Learn about the various forms of vanilla products and their versatile applications in both sweet and savory dishes, expanding your culinary repertoire.

●        Gain insights into the global vanilla market and understand its impact on the food industry, allowing you to make more informed choices.

●        Get the secrets of using vanilla effectively in your recipes and discover the flavor profiles and combinations that can take your products to the next level.

●        Learn how to properly store and care for vanilla beans to ensure they retain their freshness and flavor, prolonging their shelf-life and enhancing your cooking experience.

This week’s market report  29:25

Donny Edson is breaking down market trends and events starting with what’s happening in Panama. Changes in the weight limits going through the canal mean there is now a two-to-four-week delay in shipments getting through.

The good news is that prices on most commodities are stable. There are a few exceptions, but overall, there aren’t any big price changes happening right now.

●       Sunflower is lower than it has been for a bit and availability is good.

●       Chia prices are also stable and availability may get tight if shipments continue to be delayed.

●       Coconut sugar shipments are normalizing.

●       Ramadan may impact products coming out of Indonesia.

●       Coconut is stable, and many clients are booking into February of 2024 to take advantage of the favorable pricing.

●       Organic mango is just now being harvested. Smirk’s has availability for now, but new product isn’t expected until April of 2024.

●       Organic quinoa is still high as we see demand drop a bit. Smirk’s recommends spot buying as needed for now.

●       We’re also watching organic amaranth since the supply in India has been exhausted until the new harvest. Product from South America is available at higher prices. Smirk’s recommends getting coverage through July of 2024.

●       Tree nuts are stable with no major changes. New crop quality is higher than last years.

●       Pumpkin seeds from China are 8% to 10% higher than last year, but availability is good.

If you are in the market or have questions about for vanilla or any other natural food products, reach out at: [email protected]

Origin Vanilla

Elisa Lewis and Donny Edson are talking with Gino Hartounian of Mixed Nuts Inc. They are diving into the world of pumpkin seeds. What started as a simple partnership with Smirk's, exploring mixed nuts and sunflower seeds, took an unexpected turn. Gino's connection with Smirk's led to the discovery of a hidden gem: pumpkin seeds. Gino Hartounian, of Mixed Nuts, Inc. based in Los Angeles, joins us. As a family-owned business, Mixed Nuts specializes in dry oil roasting, flavoring, and mixing of various nuts, seeds, trail mixes, and dried fruits. With their vertically integrated operations, they are able to provide high-quality products at competitive prices. Nick's expertise and passion for the industry make him the perfect guest to delve into the latest trends and insights in the pumpkin seed market. So sit back, relax, and get ready to learn from one of the best in the business.

Are you a food manufacturer or packager? Then this episode is perfect for you! Join us as we chat with Nick Hartounian about the latest trends in the pumpkin seed market. From the grading system to the different varieties, we'll explore how pumpkin seeds are making waves in the food industry.

Discover the versatility and allergen-free properties of pumpkin seeds and get inspired by innovative uses like pumpkin protein powder and seed butter. Learn about the growing popularity of pumpkin seeds as a healthier alternative to other nuts and seeds and find out how the United States is increasing production to offer an alternative to Chinese-produced seeds.

Whether you're looking to incorporate pumpkin seeds into your products or spice up your culinary creations, this episode will provide valuable insights and tips. Tune in now and stay ahead of the curve in the pumpkin seed market!

Questions about products email: [email protected]

Mixed Nuts Inc.