NEXT Trends 2020 series: In an effort to help support retailers and brands, we will be publishing regular brand features for the next few weeks. Brands are selected from those that registered to exhibit at Natural Products Expo West 2020 and were curated as great examples of one of 50 trends New Hope Network is monitoring in the marketplace.

These trends are part of New Hope Network's NEXT Expo Guidebook and trend hierarchy.

Today, we look at four companies that are innovating in the "Meal Kit" trend within the Coping with Chaos macro force. From snacks to meals, to baking with the kiddos, brands are finding easier ways for consumers to engage in meal prep in all meal occasions conveniently and without all the complexity.

1. Culinevo

What is it? These refrigerated or frozen meals are fully cooked, ready to just heat and serve. Options include meat options such as Chicken Marsala and Creamy Chicken Alfredo, as well as plant-based options like Mac&Cheeze and Organic Chicken Enchiladas.

Innovation: Culinevo offers plant-based, keto, paleo and organic options that are created by chefs. Meals are made without additives or preservatives and are minimally processed.

2. Good Food Made Simple

What is it? Nutritious, convenient and clean meals for any time of day. All of Good Food Made Simple’s chef-crafted meals are made with organic ingredients and antibiotic- and hormone-free meats. 

Innovation: Pancake puffs are one example of a unique on-the-go meal Good Food Made Simple offers. 

3. Thistle Health

What is it? Thistle delivers healthy, prepared meals directly to customers. Meal options are for breakfast, lunch and dinner. The company also has juices, snacks and wellness shots. 

Innovation: All of Thistle Health's food is plant-forward, gluten- and dairy-free, organic whenever possible and nutritionally designed.

4. Vegetarian Traveler

What is it? Vegetarian Traveler makes protein toppers to take on the go.

Innovation: Each bag of pea, beans and nuts contains 15-17 grams of protein. This shelf-stable, vegan protein solution is for those who want more plant protein in their diets.