WASTEFUL food packaging is among the fastest-growing environmental concerns for shoppers worldwide with New Zealanders most willing to cut back, according to a recent Nielsen Global Food Packaging Survey. The internet-based survey in 48 nations indicated that 40% of respondents were 'very concerned' by trash from food packaging in November 2007 against just 31% in the previous poll in May 2007.

Rooibos is no longer a niche herbal tea but a global name with global awareness. In the months ahead, we should hear clinical verification or otherwise of its many health benefits – and, if positive, the ramifications for the industry growing, packing and marketing this indigenous treasure could be immense.

With the new year here, new product developments promise better health and happier taste buds in 2008, Datamonitor's Productscan Online takes a look at trends in consumer packaged goods for the coming year.