The Summer Fancy Food Show is one of my favorite events of the influencer year! I have attended for the last 15 years and have always come away with tons of knowledge about exciting new brands and innovative products. About ten years ago, I became mostly vegan—I eat fish occasionally—and there were far fewer options. Fortunately, vegan food brands have exploded over the last several years, so there are now hundreds of plant-based products on the market, many of which will be showcased at the Summer Fancy Food Show.
This year marks the show’s 70th anniversary, and I couldn’t be more excited to head back to New York City’s Javits Center from June 28th-30th to see what the Specialty Food Association has in store. Every year, the Summer Fancy Food Show brings together thousands of exhibitors from around the world, making it one of the best places to discover emerging food trends, innovative products, and the next generation of must-have pantry staples.
As someone who covers food and lifestyle, this event has become an annual tradition. It’s where I often discover brands long before they become available in mainstream grocery stores. Many of the companies I’ve featured over the years first introduced their products at this very show, making it an invaluable resource for both influencers and food lovers alike.
Of course, my first stop is always the plant-based section. One of the most exciting changes I’ve witnessed over the past decade has been the incredible growth of vegan foods. What was once a niche category has evolved into one of the show’s biggest attractions. I’m looking forward to sampling new dairy-free cheeses, frozen meals, snacks, desserts, sauces, beverages, and innovative protein products from companies pushing the boundaries of plant-based eating.
I’m also excited to explore international pavilions featuring specialty foods from countries around the globe. I always start in Italy first as I adore the Italians and they always show me so much love. One of the joys of attending the Summer Fancy Food Show is discovering flavors and ingredients I may never have encountered otherwise. Whether it’s artisan olive oils from the Mediterranean, handcrafted vegan chocolates from Europe, unique Asian sauces, or Latin American snacks, there’s always something that surprises me.
Beyond the food itself, the Summer Fancy Food Show is also an incredible opportunity to meet the passionate entrepreneurs behind these brands. Hearing their stories, learning about their missions, and understanding what inspired them to create their products adds another dimension to every tasting. It’s one of the reasons I enjoy covering the event year after year.
After the show and throughout the year, I’ll be sharing some of my favorite discoveries, highlighting standout vegan products, introducing exciting new companies, and reporting on the biggest food trends I learn about during the show. If you’re looking for healthier snacks, gourmet treats, sustainable brands, or simply delicious new foods to try, you’ll definitely want to follow along.
Happy 70th Anniversary to the Summer Fancy Food Show! I can’t wait to hit the show floor once again and share all of the delicious discoveries with you.
