Beyond paleo

More consumers are seeking products that align with specific nutritional needs, such as ketogenic and low-FODMAP diets.

“You will continue to see a growing number of products made with vegan, paleo or gluten-free claims, of course, but we’re also seeing the emergence of more specialized diets,” Ms. Mast said. “We’re seeing products geared towards folks who are trying to avoid FODMAPs, which are the fermentable carbohydrates you might find in onions or garlic.”

FODMAPPED, Irvine, Calif., produces a range of soups and sauces made without carbohydrates associated with causing gastrointestinal distress in certain individuals. FODY Food Co., Montreal, offers low-FODMAP nutrition bars, sauces and soup bases.

Several exhibitors at Expo West have formulated products for the ketogenic diet, a low-carbohydrate, high-fat approach to eating that has been gaining traction in the health and fitness community as a solution for disease prevention and weight management. Ketologie, Dallas, offers powdered beverage mixes and low-carb cereal products designed for the diet. Julian Bakery, Oceanside, Calif., is introducing the InstaKetones Protein Bar, with 8 grams of fat, 15 grams of protein and 4 net carbs per serving. Cave Shake, Los Angeles, markets “the original keto, paleo, vegan ready-to-eat coconut milkshake” in such flavors as vanilla, coffee and chocolate.

The Autoimmune Protocol diet, which eliminates dairy, eggs, nightshades, nuts and seeds, inspired recent launches from Wild Zora Foods, Fort Collins, Colo., and The New Primal, Charleston, S.C. Both companies offer meat snacks without ingredients that may trigger inflammation in those with autoimmune disease.

“Oftentimes, there’s a personal story behind the entrepreneurs launching these products because they had a specific need and nobody was out there fulfilling that need,” Ms. Mast said.