NPB and Partners at the Exhibitor Booth During Expo West
The 44th edition of Natural Products Expo West took place in Anaheim, California, from March 4-7, showcasing vibrant innovations and sustainability in the food, health, and wellness sectors. As the largest event for natural, organic, and healthy lifestyle products, the 2025 expo did not disappoint, attracting more than 65,000 attendees and featuring 3,000 brands, including the National Peanut Board (NPB).
NPB aimed to deliver a premium experience with new creative inspirations, driving consumer demand for wellness, on-the-go, and protein products. The Board also invited four brand partners to highlight the versatility of peanut-based innovations: Peanut Butter & Co., PBfit, Lil’ Red’s Peanut Dip, and Dixie Grace Boiled Peanuts. The NPB booth was bustling all week, engaging industry experts, retail buyers, distributors, food service providers, and social media content creators.
PBfit elevated the protein bar category with two new entries: PB Chocolate and Salted Caramel PB, both offering 22 to 24 grams of plant-based protein. Consumers raved, saying, “Protein truly never tasted this good!”
Dixie Grace Boiled Peanuts introduced many to their first taste of organic, slow-boiled peanuts in a spice-infused mixture. As a bonus, attendees received a not-yet-released, shelf-stable, on-the-go package. This innovation earned Dixie a nomination for the coveted Expo West NEXTY Award.
Lil’ Red’s Peanut Dip invited attendees to experience the first boiled peanut dip. Featuring three unique flavors, these dips provide more protein and fewer carbs than hummus while being plant-based and shelf-stable.
Peanut Butter & Co. showcased its new crunchy peanut butter chip cookies while sampling its on-the-go, increased protein peanut butter spread—a perfect snack for the Gen Z lifestyle.
Across the Anaheim campus, the top three observed trends included:
Modern science innovations emphasizing the functional benefits of immunity and gut health.
Emerging beverage innovations combining protein, prebiotics/probiotics, and alternative plant-based milks.
Better-for-you snacks, highlighting the endless possibilities of peanuts, such as coconut peanut butter and powders; on-the-go sustainable packs featuring increased protein peanut butter balls and bites; athletic peanut butter bars infused with energy and caffeine; and global flavor infusions like a unique African peanut stew—ideal for Gen Z consumers or outdoor enthusiasts.
Overall, the 2025 Expo West was a testament to the industry’s commitment to innovation and sustainability. Click here to see the full slideshow of pictures from Expo West.