What Does 2015 Have In Store For Food?
By Sam Lewis
According to Innova Market Insights, a shift in food and beverage labeling, as well as an increased demand for fresh foods and ingredients will be among the top drivers of the food industry next year
Innova Market Insights — a food and beverage product market database — has released its most-recent data regarding the drivers that will most-likely impact the food and beverage industry during the upcoming year. 2015’s top 5 food trends are as follows:
The Transition From “Clean” To “Clear” Labels
Almost 25 percent of food and beverage products released in 2014 featured “natural” and “origin” as part of the product’s description. However, the ongoing concern regarding what the term “natural” means, the need for clarity on this term’s definition has never been more apparent. For this reason, manufacturers, consumers, retailers, and industry regulators are driving the change for more transparency in food and beverage labeling.
Fresh Foods For Cooking At Home
Cooking shows and food bloggers have made cooking at home seem fun and have turned it into a social event. In addition to being fun and social, consumers believe cooking at home is a healthier and cost effective option than dining out. For these reasons, Innova believes the demand for fresh foods and ingredients will be a driving force of the industry in 2015.
Reaching The Millennial Market
Ranging in age from 15 to 35, this demographic now makes up nearly one-third of the world’s population. This group of the population is well informed, socially engaged, very tech savvy, interested in trying new things, and are generally less loyal to brands than previous generations. Because of these factors, along with wanting to know the story behind a brand or product, Innova believes that many food makers will begin marketing to millennials to expand profit margins.
More Snacks, Fewer Meals
Consumers are busier than ever, which has led to the ongoing decline of formal mealtimes and increasing number of foods that are considered snacks. Quick, healthy, and on-the-go foods are replacing traditional meals with a different set of snacks marketed at different, targeted mealtimes.
Good Carbs And Beneficial Fats
Concerns regarding obesity have driven a rising importance on natural and unsaturated fats and oils, along with a growing interest in foods’ omega 3 fatty acid content. Similarly, butter is making a comeback as the preference over margarine due to a transition away from trans fats. Also following this path is an increase in natural sugars and reductions in added sugars and artificial sweeteners.