Predicting food trends can be challenging, but it’s not impossible.
There are several factors that can help you make an educated guess about upcoming consumer food trends. Here are 12 steps you can follow to help make a prediction:
- Keep an eye on current food trends
- Look at demographic shifts
- Monitor global food trends
- Consider sustainability
- Pay attention to technology
- Monitor social media
- Keep an eye on food industry events
- Look for changes in consumer behavior to predict food trends
- Take an interest in food innovation
- Take note of cultural and regional influences
- Stay informed about food-related news and events
- Follow industry experts and influencers who predict food trends
Let’s take a deeper dive into how you can put these steps into action.
Keep an eye on current food trends
Pay attention to the types of food that are currently popular, such as plant-based diets, functional foods, or gourmet street food. This can give you an idea of what people are interested in and what they’re willing to try.
Look at demographic shifts
Changes in demographics, such as the aging of the population or the increasing diversity of the population, can have a significant impact on food trends. For example, as the baby boomer generation ages, there may be a growing interest in functional foods that help with specific health conditions.
Monitor global food trends
Food trends are often influenced by what’s happening in other countries. Turn to social media to see what flavors consumers are discussing in other countries.
Consider sustainability
Sustainability is becoming increasingly important to consumers, and this will continue in the future. Consider how food production and consumption can be made more sustainable, such as reducing food waste or using more environmentally friendly packaging.
Pay attention to technology
Technology is playing an increasingly important role in the food industry, from the development of new plant-based meat alternatives to the use of data to improve supply chain efficiency and to reduce labor costs. Keep an eye on technological advancements that could have an impact on food trends.
Monitor social media
Social media platforms can be a great way to stay informed about the latest food trends and what people are talking about. Look for food hashtags, food influencer posts, and other indicators of what’s popular.
Attend food industry events
Food industry events, such as trade shows, conferences, and culinary competitions, can be great places to learn about the latest food trends and meet people who are at the forefront of the latest trends.
Look for changes in consumer behavior to predict food trends
Changes in consumer behavior, such as a growing interest in health and wellness, can have a big impact on food trends. Keep an eye on consumer surveys, market research, and other indicators of changing consumption behavior.
Take an interest in food innovation
Innovations in food science and technology can lead to new and exciting food products. Keep an eye on food startups, new ingredient developments, and other sources of innovation in the food industry.
Take note of cultural and regional food influences
Different cultures and regions of the country have different food traditions and preferences, which can influence food trends. Look for examples of regional cuisines that are becoming more popular (example: Detroit-style pizza), or cultural food traditions that are being reinterpreted for a modern audience (Example: China’s tea culture).
Stay informed about food-related news and events
Keeping up with food-related news and events, such as new restaurant openings, food safety scares, and trending ghost kitchens can give you a better understanding of what’s happening in the industry and how likely it could affect food trends.
Follow industry experts and influencers who predict food trends
Industry experts and influencers, such as food writers/bloggers, chefs, and food critics, can offer valuable insights into what’s happening in the world of food. Follow their writing, attend their events, and engage with them on social media to stay informed about the latest food trends.
Following the above food trend indicators, you can comfortably stay ahead of the curve and be one of the first to predict the next big food trend.
Whether you’re a food distributor, manufacturer, restaurant owner, or someone who is simply curious about the latest developments in the food industry, these steps will help you stay informed and ahead of the game.