Forbes highlights top three food trends

Fresh from the Summer Fancy Food Show in New York City, Forbes Home & Kitchen Editor Monica Petrucci has highlighted what she sees as the three most prevalent food trends.

The respected journalist picked out protein, functional drinks and global spins as representing the current direction of consumer packaged goods.

While the move towards protein-packed snacks and drinks isn’t new, Petrucci reports that this trend is still going strong. She wrote:

“You may have thought the height of the protein craze was behind us, but we’ve actually yet to reach its peak. Consumers are prioritising protein more than ever, especially with the growth of GLP-1 drugs, which is why brands are eager to meet those demands – even through somewhat unexpected sources.”

The GLP-1 drugs which Petrucci refers to are medications that mimic a natural gut hormone, and in doing so, help to regulate appetite.

Functional drinks are in demand, with consumers expecting more than simply refreshment when purchasing cans and bottles. Among the eye-catching products to hit the shelves are electrolyte drinks, which can be used as alcohol mixers and potentially curb hangovers.

Dark or very dark maple syrup, harvested late in the season, is recognised as having a higher concentration of antioxidants and minerals, meaning it may appeal the most to today’s nutrition-focused consumers.

Petrucci – who is based in Boston and has also written for USA Today – also highlighted a tendency towards multicultural flavours as consumers demonstrate an adventurous palette. From Korean rice porridge packaged as oatmeal to Caribbean-themed kombucha, the clear demand for global choices reflects the diverse population across the pond.