Trends to Watch
Looking ahead to 2017, market intelligence agency Mintel forecasted the six key trends it believes will impact the global food and drink market. The firm said the coming year will be a year of extremes, from “ancient” products including grains, recipes, practices and traditions to the use of technology to create more and better tasting plant-enhanced foods.
Mintel expects to see a rise in both “slow” and “fast” claims, as well as more products designed to help people unwind before bedtime, sleep better and restore the body while they rest. Further, opportunities may exist for more products to leverage the reputation of the tea category and use chamomile, lavender and other herbs in formulations as a way to achieve a sense of calm before bedtime. Mintel suggested there may also be a valid excuse for nighttime chocolate indulgence.
Other unexpected trends include fruit snacks made with "ugly" fruit, and mayonnaise made with the liquid from draining chickpeas, which has been dubbed "aquafaba."
Mintel’s Global Food and Drink Analyst Jenny Zegler discussed the top food and drink trends—highlighting both ingredient and food and drink product trends—set to make an impact on global markets. "This year’s trends are grounded in current consumer demands for healthy, convenient and trustworthy food and drink. Across the world, manufacturers and retailers have opportunities to provide more people with food and drink that is recognizable, saves time and contains servings of beneficial fruits, vegetables and other plants. In addition, Mintel has identified exciting new opportunities for functional food and drink designed for evening consumption, progressive solutions for food waste and affordable healthy food for low-income consumers. Opportunities abound for companies around the world to capitalize on these trends, helping them develop in new regions and more categories throughout the course of the next year and into the future,” said Ms. Zegler.