Barbara Harfmann

Barbara Harfmann, managing editor of Beverage Industry, visits beverage companies for cover stories and facility tours, and writes and edits for the magazine’s print and online components. She also represents the magazine at trade shows and events. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Mass Communications and Public Relations from Illinois State University.

Bioengineered used instead of GMO as new labeling rule takes effect

Sales of Non-GMO Project Verified products exceed $26B

Barbara Harfmann

January 18, 2022

No Comments

Along with the United States, many countries require genetically modified foods to be labeled. Effective this year, the National Bioengineered Food Disclosure Standard requires manufacturers in the beverage industry to label products using the term “bioengineered” instead of “GMO.”

Packaging Equipment

Flexibility vital for can filling and seaming equipment

Quality control, safety important on filling lines

Barbara Harfmann

December 30, 2021

No Comments

Can fillers and seamers have adapted to handle the influx of SKUs flooding the beverage market to keep operations running smoothly.

R&D Feature

Weight management coincides with healthier lifestyle

Suppliers aiding weight management through innovations in sugar reduction, functionality

Barbara Harfmann

December 27, 2021

No Comments

Beverage trends including gluten free, non-GMO, plant-based and low- or no-sugar are resonating in the marketplace as consumers are looking for more than a “diet” to help them manage their weight.

Novembal Novactive 28 non-spill sports cap by SmartSeal

Packaging Materials

Caps, closures provide protection, premiumization

Intelligent packaging to reach $46B by 2031

Barbara Harfmann

December 23, 2021

No Comments

Tasked with protecting the contents of beverages, caps and closures also are seeing trends that impact sustainable measures as well as incorporating smart technology.

Between Drinks

No alcohol trend rising in prominence

A third of Gen Z consumers don’t drink alcohol

Barbara Harfmann

December 15, 2021

No Comments

Trends indicate that no alcohol is trending not just in “Dry January” but throughout the year. As a result, beverage manufacturers are stocking shelves with plenty of non-alcohol beer, wine and spirits.

Gist 25-calorie prebiotic sparkling beverage

Vitamins, minerals key to good health

Immunity takes center stage with vitamins D, K

Barbara Harfmann

December 2, 2021

No Comments

The usage of vitamin D and K in combination bolsters immune support, while botanical extracts, such as acerola, beetroot and yerba mate, provide vitamins and antioxidants. Minerals such as zinc also are trending.

Special Report: Contract Packaging

Contract packing business to double to $119B

HPP, healthier functional beverages drive demand for contract manufacturing

Barbara Harfmann

November 19, 2021

No Comments

From coming up with an innovative idea for a new beverage to seeing it filled, packed and on store shelves, contract packers are on the forefront of helping customers achieve their vision without costly overhead expenses.

Category Focus

Milk, bulk still water top in private-label sales

Value, quality drive private label acceptance

Barbara Harfmann

November 17, 2021

No Comments

During the pandemic, consumers looking to save money turned to private-label products. With nearly 50% of market share, refrigerated private-label dairy products had dollar sales of $7.3 billion, slightly less than the $7.9 billion notched for national brands.

Premium sparkling wines, Champagnes make the “nice” list

Sparkling wine to grow at 7% CAGR through 2031

Barbara Harfmann

November 11, 2021

No Comments

As winter arrives and the holiday spirit is in the air, consumers are returning to bars and restaurants seeking premium sparkling wines, Champagne and cocktails.

2021 Craft Beer Report: Craft segment looks to rebound in flat market

Beer volume drops 9%

Barbara Harfmann

November 9, 2021

No Comments

Although 2020 was a challenging year, craft brewers found ways to connect with their customers.

This important industry event is a learning and information sharing experience for warehousing, distribution and fleet management professionals who will have the opportunity to continue to share ideas and network with their industry peers in a safe and productive format as we continue to navigate these challenging times.

The Beverage Forum attracts a broad array of beverage companies with key leaders and innovators to address the next generation of the beverage market. Many entrepreneurs and executive leadership teams have laid out their success plans during this evolving and digital-driven time.

Barbara Harfmann

ARTICLES

Bioengineered used instead of GMO as new labeling rule takes effect

Flexibility vital for can filling and seaming equipment

Weight management coincides with healthier lifestyle

Caps, closures provide protection, premiumization

No alcohol trend rising in prominence

Vitamins, minerals key to good health

Contract packing business to double to $119B

Milk, bulk still water top in private-label sales

Premium sparkling wines, Champagnes make the “nice” list

2021 Craft Beer Report: Craft segment looks to rebound in flat market

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