Click here for the full article from Deise Purcell, SFA
The Specialty Food Association’s Trendspotter panel walked the Winter Fancy Food Show, armed with their professional expertise and earlier predictions for the , to select eight notable specialty food and beverage Show trends.
Here are the panel’s picks for the top trends of the Winter Show. .
Regional Cuisines of Asia. Sauces, seasonings, instant noodles, and snacks reflecting the foods and ingredients of Asia’s varied regions were in the spotlight at the Winter Show.
Oat Milk Takes Dairy-Free Center Stage. Dairy alternatives continue to grow, with oat milk dominating as new products were introduced in cheeses, creamers, butter, confections, and RTD beverages.
Plants as Plants. As one of its , the Trendspotter panel predicted a renewed consumer interest in whole fruits and vegetables as part of a plant-based diet and that trend was visible at the Winter Show.
Prebiotic-Rich Functional Beverages. According to SFA’s annual , functional beverages are part of the overall rise in the popularity of specialty beverages that is helping spur specialty sales. Beverages with prebiotic benefits specifically, emerged at the Winter Show.
Sparkling and Global Teas. From antioxidant-rich and digestive-friendly varieties to products based on indigenous tea leaves, new teas and tisanes are widespread.
Charcuterie and Deli Meat Makeover. From grass-fed, to plant-based, to traditional preparation methods, charcuterie and deli meats were prevalent.
Mocktail Culture. Mocktails, or ingredients for nonalcoholic beverages that offer sophisticated alternatives to alcohol, were on display.
Sustainability-Driven Product and Packaging Development. More food products are working to build a stronger future for their community and the planet, whether through plant-based foods, regenerative agriculture, upcycled ingredients, or sustainable packaging.