News Archive

(Originally posted by FoodDive)

Alternative milk has become a key success point of the plant-based movement — a beacon that consumer purchasing behavior can change.

According to the National Consumer Panel, 41% of U.S. households purchased plant-based milk in 2022. Oat milk and almond milk are the most popular.

TurtleTree is hoping that openness will transfer to cultivated milk, which is created through biofermentation. This milk is not plant based but is instead true milk cells produced by yeast.

The dairy industry contributes about 4% to greenhouse gas emissions, or two billion metric tonnes of CO2, a year. Dairy production uses millions of tons of water annually — a single dairy cow will consume 30 to 50 gallons of water a day while lactating. Feeding and raising cattle, sheep, goats and buffalo requires about 2.5 billion acres of land, almost 7% of the total land on Earth.

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Maine was the 23rd state to join the union on March 15, 1820. Augusta is the state capital and its largest city is Portland. Maine is the 39th largest state in the U.S.; it’s bordered by New Hampshire to the west and the Canadian provinces of Quebec and New Brunswick to the northwest and northeast. The Atlantic Ocean is to the east and south of Maine.

According to the US Census Bureau, the estimated population of Maine is 1,395,722 (July 2023 est.); it ranks as the 41st most populous state.

Official Maine State Facts and Symbols

Every state has their own unique symbols, from birds to flowers to songs and more! Here are some of Maine’s official state symbols:

Nickname: Pine Tree State State Animal: Moose State Bird: Black-Capped Chickadee State Flower: White Pine Cone and Tassel State Tree: Eastern White Pine State Song: State of Maine Song State Motto: “Dirigo” (I direct)

Find more information about Maine’s state symbols/facts here.

Fun Facts about Maine

There are many interesting facts about Maine. Here are just a few.

Maine is the largest lobster producing state in the nation. In 2023, the total catch of lobsters was 93.7 million pounds.

Author Stephen King was born in Maine, and his hometown of Bangor was the model for many of the towns in his scary stories.

Because of its rocky coastline, Maine is famous for lighthouses, it has over 60 of them. The oldest lighthouse in Maine is the Portland Head Light in Cape Elizabeth.

Maine is the largest state in New England and the only state in the continental United States to share a border with only one other state (New Hampshire).

Maine has over 4,000 offshore islands.

Maine has over 32,000 miles of rivers and streams and over 6,000 lakes and ponds.

Maine is the largest producer of wild blueberries in the world.

NCP Panel Members in Maine

Let’s learn about your fellow panel members in Maine! Here’s how our Maine panel members answered some of our state highlight survey questions.

Read full post Previous Post: NCP Blog: Pet Food Trends NCP panel members represent consumers all across the country by sharing their shopping experiences and opinions. If you’re not a panel member and you’re interested in joining NCP to share your shopping experiences, earn great rewards, and influence what you see on store shelves, click here or go to the Join NCP section of the blog!

Pet Food Trends

I came across some interesting stats about pet food trends and insights that were shared by NielsenIQ (2023). I thought I would share them with you.

So, what impacts pet food trends? The type of pet, the pet food product formulation, the marketing of the pet food, and how it is delivered to market all have a major impact.

There are also some factors that influence growth and in demand in the pet food market including the increasing popularity of pets, the growing awareness of the importance of pet nutrition, and the rising demand for premium and specialized pet foods.

Let’s take a look at five (5) key trends when it comes to pet food.

Dominance of Online Shopping

Online shopping sales of pet food are driving growth trends, with more pet owners choosing to buy pet food online. Although online shopping sales dominate growth trends, in-store shopping sales still make up the majority of dollars spent.

Slow Rise of Natural and Grain-Free Pet Food Options

For the past few years, more consumers have been adopting a grain-free diet for their pets out of health concerns. In 2023, natural and grain-free pet food was still growing, although it remains a smaller part of pet food options.

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NCP In The News: Tailgating food is the real MVP of game day

NCP panel members represent consumers all across the country by sharing their shopping experiences and opinions. If you’re not a panel member and you’re interested in joining NCP to share your shopping experiences, earn great rewards, and influence what you see on store shelves, click here or go to the Join NCP section of the blog!

(Originally posted by The Seattle Times)

The economic impact of tailgating on local food businesses

Tailgating offers a unique opportunity for food vendors and small businesses to showcase their products and generate revenue. With such a large crowd, vendors can expose their brand to a wide audience and generate immediate revenue. Some tailgaters prefer to purchase food in the parking lot due to traveling a long distance or looking forward to certain vendors.

According to the National Consumer Panel, “tailgating contributes $35 billion in food and beverage sales.” Since most food is purchased ahead of time, local grocery stores and delis benefit from these sales. Some stores have special tailgating promotions for popular foods like hamburgers, hot dogs and sausages. Deli meat and pre-made dips are common options too. Restaurants that are close to stadiums cash in by offering food and drink specials before the game, encouraging people to eat at their establishment instead of preparing their own food in the parking lot.

The enduring legacy of tailgating food

Classic tailgating recipes are more than just food, they are a symbol of community, tradition and the shared experience of football season. Food will continue to be a central part of tailgating culture, bringing people together for years to come.

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NCP In The Know: Summer Vibes

We’ve just wrapped up our NCP Summer Vibes survey and are excited to share the sunshine-filled results with you! From your favorite summer activities and dream vacation spots to your thoughts on the summer heat, foods, drinks and more, here’s a peek into what makes your summer sizzle.

On the Go

We wanted to know: what are your favorite summer activities? Here’s what panel members who responded to the survey had to say:
– Relaxing at home
– Vacation/traveling
– Gardening
– Swimming
– Relaxing at the beach/pool

Half of our survey respondents usually take a vacation during the summer. Here are the top five vacation destinations:
– Beach
– Mountains
– Cruise
– All-inclusive resort
– Exploring other countries

Fresh Air Fun

Summer is a popular time for outdoor events like festivals and concerts!
– 45% rarely attend outdoor festivals and concerts
– 28% occasionally attend
– 22% never attend
– 6% frequently attend

Farmers markets are another staple of summer- eating in season is good for so many reasons.
– 37% occasionally shop at farmers markets
– 36% rarely do
– 17% never do
– 10% frequently do

Summer Food and Drinks

Do you eat different foods or drink different beverages in the summer? Here are the top five summer foods and drinks our survey respondents enjoy during the season:

– Fruits
– BBQ/Grilled foods
– Ice cream/ices
– Seafood
– Salads

– Iced tea
– Water
– Lemonade
– Soda/pop
– Iced coffee/lattes

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NCP Blog: Spotlight on Panel Members in Louisiana

Up next in our Spotlight on States series: Louisiana!

French explorer Robert de LaSalle named Louisiana in honor of King Louis XIV.

Louisiana was admitted to the Union on April 30, 1812, as the 18th state. It’s nicknamed the “Pelican State” and consists of 64 parishes, which are similar to counties in other states. The term parishes comes from church units set up by the Spanish in 1699.

The capital city is Baton Rouge. Louisiana is bordered by Arkansas, Mississippi, and Texas, along with the Gulf of Mexico to the south.

The population of Louisiana is 4,657,757 according to the 2020 census.

Official Louisiana State Symbols

Every state has their own unique symbols, from birds to flowers to songs and more! Here are some of Louisiana’s official state symbols:

– Bird: Eastern brown pelican – Dog: Catahoula leopard dog – Flower: Magnolia – Insect: Honeybee – Tree: Bald cypress – Reptile: Alligator – Mammal: Black bear – Musical instrument: Diatonic accordion

Find more information about Louisiana’s state symbols here.

Fun Facts about Louisiana

Baton Rouge was the site of the only American Revolution battle fought outside the original 13 colonies.

There are 39 species of crawfish in Louisiana.

The Louisiana State Capitol is the tallest state capitol in the U.S. at 450 feet in height.

New Orleans is the birthplace of jazz.

The University of Louisiana at Lafayette is the only university in the U.S. with a swamp on its campus.

Former Louisiana Governor Jimmie Davis is better known for his popular recorded rendition of You Are My Sunshine, the second most recognized song in the world.

Famous people from Louisiana include Britney Spears, Ellen DeGeneres, Louis Armstrong, Terry Bradshaw, and Jared Leto.

NCP Panel Members in Louisiana

Want to learn more about your fellow panel members in another state? Here’s how our Louisiana panel members answered some of our survey questions!

Read full post Previous Post: NCP In The News: Many think pink Himalayan salt is the healthiest salt. Are the benefits real? NCP panel members represent consumers all across the country by sharing their shopping experiences and opinions. If you’re not a panel member and you’re interested in joining NCP to share your shopping experiences, earn great rewards, and influence what you see on store shelves, click here or go to the Join NCP section of the blog!

(Originally posted by USA Today)

Are you into sweet or salty snacks?

While some favor a combination (looking at you, peanut M&Ms) many of us fall into one camp or the other. According to a National Consumer Panel survey 25% of respondents or 1 in 4 said they prefer salty snacks.

There can certainly be too much of a good thing, however. The average American consumes far more sodium than the recommended daily amount. Too much sodium can increase the risk of heart disease, stroke and kidney disease.

What is the healthiest salt?

Table salt, sea salt, kosher salt, Himalayan salt – is there one variety that makes a difference in your overall diet?

Not exactly, says Amy Bragagnini, a clinical oncology dietitian and a spokesperson for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. It’s more about the amount you’re consuming. The FDA’s 2020-2025 Dietary Guidelines recommends consuming less than 2,300 milligrams of sodium per day, about a teaspoon of table salt.

Read the full article…

Kentucky was the 15th state to join the union on June 1, 1792. Frankfort is the state capital and its largest city is Louisville. Kentucky is the 37th largest state in the U.S. and is bordered by the states of Illinois, Indiana, Missouri, Ohio, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia. The name Kentucky comes from the Iroquois Indian word Ken-tah-ten which means land of tomorrow.

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the estimated population of Kentucky is 4,526,154 (July 2023 est.); it ranks as the 31st most populous state.

Official Kentucky State Facts and Symbols

Every state has its own unique symbols, from birds to flowers to songs and more! Here are some of Kentucky’s official state symbols:

Nickname: Bluegrass State State Bird: Cardinal State Flower: Goldenrod State Tree: Tulip Tree State Song: My Old Kentucky Home by Stephen Foster State Motto: “United we stand, divided we fall”

Find more information about Kentucky’s state symbols/facts here.

Fun Facts about Kentucky

There are many interesting facts about Kentucky. Here are just a few from 50states.com.

Bluegrass is not really blue, it’s green, but in the springtime, bluegrass produces bluish-purple buds that when seen in large fields give a blue cast to the grass.

The Kentucky Derby is the oldest continuously held horse race in the country. It’s held at Churchill Downs in Louisville on the first Saturday in May.

The first Kentucky Fried Chicken restaurant owned and operated by Colonel Sanders is located in Corbin.

Chevrolet Corvettes are manufactured in Bowling Green.

The world’s largest baseball bat, 120 feet tall and weighing 68,000 pounds, can be seen at the Louisville Slugger Museum in Louisville.

Ninety-five percent of the world’s bourbon is produced in Kentucky.

Famous people born in Kentucky include President Abraham Lincoln, Muhammad Ali, George Clooney, Johnny Depp, Jennifer Lawrence, and many more.

NCP Panel Members in Kentucky

Let’s learn about your fellow panel members in Kentucky! Here’s how our Kentucky panel members answered some of our state highlight survey questions.

Read full post Previous Post: NCP Blog: Spotlight on Panel Members in Kansas NCP panel members represent consumers all across the country by sharing their shopping experiences and opinions. If you’re not a panel member and you’re interested in joining NCP to share your shopping experiences, earn great rewards, and influence what you see on store shelves, click here or go to the Join NCP section of the blog!

National Dog Day is celebrated every year on August 26th. The day was founded in 2004 by pet & family lifestyle expert, animal rescue advocate, conservationist, dog trainer and author, Colleen Paige. August 26th is the date that Colleen’s family adopted their first dog “Sheltie” from a local animal shelter when Colleen was 10 years old.

National Dog Day celebrates all dogs, mixed breed and pure bred. The mission of this day is to help the public recognize the number of dogs that need to be rescued each year and acknowledge family dogs and dogs that work selflessly each day to save lives, keep us safe, and bring comfort.

If you own a dog you know that every day is a day to celebrate this beloved member of your family!

Celebrating National Dog Day

So, what are some ways to celebrate National Dog Day? Take a look at the following suggestions!

Donate blankets, food, and/or toys to an animal welfare organization.
Go for a walk/outing with your dog or a friend’s dog.
Take photos of your dog; have a fun photoshoot!
Buy your dog a new toy, a special treat, or teach them a new trick.
Send a dog-related gift to a friend and/or family member who has a dog.

Fun Facts About Dogs

Here are some fun facts about dogs from the American Kennel Club that you might find interesting.

A dog’s nose print is unique, much like a person’s fingerprint.

Forty-five percent of dogs in the U.S. sleep in their owner’s bed.

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NCP Blog: Spotlight on Panel Members in Kansas

Kansas was admitted to the Union on January 29, 1861, as the 34th state. It’s a landlocked state in the middle of the country and borders Nebraska, Colorado, Missouri, and Oklahoma. Kansas was named after the Kansas River, which was named for the Kansa people.

Topeka is the capital city of Kansas, and the largest city in the state is Wichita. The most populous area of the state, however, is the Kansas portion of the Kansas City metropolitan area.

The population of Kansas was 2,940,865 as of the 2020 census, making it the 36th most populous state. It’s the 15th largest state in land area.

Official Kansas State Symbols

Every state has their own unique symbols, from birds to flowers to songs and more! Here are some of Kansas’ official state symbols:

– Bird: Western meadowlark – Tree: Cottonwood – Song: “Home on the Range” – Animal: American buffalo – Insect: Honeybee – Rock: Greenhorn limestone – Fish: Channel catfish – Fruit: Sandhill plum

Find more information about Kansas’ state symbols here.

Fun Facts about Kansas

A ball of twine in Cawker City measures over 38′ in circumference and weighs more than 16,750 pounds and is still growing.

A grain elevator in Hutchinson is 1/2 mile long and holds 46 million bushels in its 1,000 bins.

Kansas is the largest producer of wheat in the country. Just about one-fifth of the wheat grown in the U.S. comes from Kansas.

Kansas is nicknamed “The Free State” because of its role in the Civil War. It had formally rejected slavery by popular vote and vowed to fight on the side of the Union, which led to conflicts with neighboring state Missouri, including the Lawrence Massacre in 1863.

Argonia, Kansas, elected the first female mayor in the United States in 1887.

Famous people from Kansas include Amelia Earhart, Dwight D. Eisenhower, Erin Brockovich, Gale Sayers, Melissa Etheridge, and Martina McBride.

NCP Panel Members in Kansas

Want to learn more about your fellow panel members in another state? Here’s how our Kansas panel members answered some of our survey questions!

Read full post Previous Post: NCP Blog: Spotlight on Panel Members in Iowa NCP panel members represent consumers all across the country by sharing their shopping experiences and opinions. If you’re not a panel member and you’re interested in joining NCP to share your shopping experiences, earn great rewards, and influence what you see on store shelves, click here or go to the Join NCP section of the blog!