Buy 4 Food Stocks With Strong Price Upside for a Healthy Portfolio

Market Overview - The U.S. stock market has been on a 21-month rally with no signs of weakening, despite September historically being the worst-performing month [1] - Major indexes are currently trading positively with only five trading days left in September, although volatility may arise from weak economic data or geopolitical conflicts [1] Food Industry Insights - Defensive stocks from the food industry are recommended to safeguard portfolios during potential market pauses [2] - The food sector has faced inflationary pressures affecting input costs and consumer purchasing power, but strong brand presence and strategic pricing have helped companies navigate these challenges [2][4] Recommended Food Stocks - Four food stocks are highlighted for their strong price upside potential: The Chefs' Warehouse Inc. (CHEF), Nomad Foods Ltd. (NOMD), Lifeway Foods Inc. (LWAY), and Laird Superfood Inc. (LSF) [3][7] - Each of these stocks carries a Zacks Rank of 1 (Strong Buy) or 2 (Buy) [3] Company-Specific Highlights The Chefs' Warehouse Inc. (CHEF) - CHEF focuses on specialty food distribution for chefs and has a product portfolio that includes artisan charcuterie and specialty cheeses [8][9] - Expected revenue and earnings growth rates are 9.7% and 12.6%, respectively, with a 22.5% short-term price upside potential from an average target price of $49 [10] Nomad Foods Ltd. (NOMD) - NOMD manufactures and distributes frozen foods across several European countries, with brands like Birds Eye and Iglo [11] - Expected revenue and earnings growth rates are 4.3% and 12.6%, respectively, with a 27.3% short-term price upside potential from an average target price of $24.17 [12] Lifeway Foods Inc. (LWAY) - LWAY produces probiotic-based products, primarily drinkable kefir, and has a diverse product range including soft cheeses and yogurt [13][14] - Expected revenue and earnings growth rates are 24.7% and 32%, respectively, with a 23.3% short-term price upside potential from an average target price of $26.50 [15] Laird Superfood Inc. (LSF) - LSF specializes in plant-based natural foods and offers a variety of products through e-commerce and third-party platforms [16][17] - Expected revenue and earnings growth rates are 21.6% and 85.9%, respectively, with a 14.5% short-term price upside potential from an average target price of $4.75 [18]