With 2023 just around the corner, supermarket company Whole Foods consulted with their expert Trends Council to identify the next big foods, ingredients, and trends that will dominate 2023.
The New Brew – Yaupon
Yaupon, a holly bush found in the Southern area of the U.S., is growing in popularity thanks to its mild earthy taste and unique benefits. Yaupon also happens to be North America’s only known native caffeinated plant and was brewed into herbal tea and prepared as a “black drink” by Indigenous Americans. This new brew is gaining so much popularity, bartenders are even starting to experiment with the plant on cocktail menus.
Pulp with Purpose
According to a poll by the Morning Consult, one in three consumers use a non-dairy alternative at least once a week. With this statistic, one might wonder where all the wasted by-products of their production might go. TikTok creators are actually exploring different ways to reuse the leftover nut and oat pulp at home. Brands have also hopped on this trend and are upcycling by-products like oat, soy, and almond pulp.
Plant-Powered Pasta
Plant-based pasta alternatives are helping consumers get their daily fruit and vegetable intake with ingredients like spaghetti squash and hearts of palm. From chickpea pasta, to cauliflower gnocchi, these plant-based alternatives offer something for everyone.
Great Dates
Dates were a TikTok hit in spring 2022 as users shared their recipes using the fruit. Dates aren’t anything new, they’ve actually been around and enjoyed since the times of ancient Mesopotamia. Today, the dried fruit is referred to as “nature’s candy” and is being used as a sweetener in a number of applications, including pastes and syrups.
The Poultry Revolution
More and more consumers are prioritizing a chicken’s quality of life when shopping for eggs and poultry. Global Animal Partnership (G.A.P.) is implementing The Better Chicken Project which aims to improve chickens’ lives and the quality of the chicken we eat.
Help from Kelp
Kelp farming is more important than ever as consumers become more climate cautious. In its original form, kelp can absorb carbon in the atmosphere. Additionally, kelp also grows quickly, doesn’t require freshwater, and is highly versatile in a number of applications. We’re already seeing kelp in noodles, chips, and sauces.
Climate-Conscious Callouts
Brands are listening to consumers who are becoming more aware of how their food options impact the environment. Brands are working to improve production and products feature sustainability labels on packaging. We live in a time where consumers expect brands to be more involved with environmental concerns and they’re responding.
Retro Remix
According to Mintel Global Consumer, 73% of U.S. consumers enjoy things that remind them of the past, making it a good time to introduce nostalgic foods. Whether it’s mac and cheese or classic cereals, we all love comfort foods that remind us of our childhood. Today, these old-school foods are coming back but with a healthful twist. These old comfort foods are being remade with consideration for the wellness-conscious and special diet consumer in mind.
Only the Best for Pets
More than 23 million Americans adopted a pet during the pandemic, according to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA). As we return to the office, there’s been an increased focus on the health and wellness of our pets. Supplements like bone broth are exploding in popularity and brands are using recipes that make pet food more delicious.
Avocado Oil Craze
This shelf staple is going mainstream in packaged products and replacing other oils like canola and sunflower in snacks, mayonnaise, and ready-to-eat meals. Avocado oil also has positive attributes, such as a high oleic fatty acid content and a high smoke point.
