Specialty Food Association’s Trendspotter Panel made up of members from the diverse culinary world have made these food predictions for 2023.
Convenience is still important. After perfecting their cooking skills during the Covid stay-at-home mandates, people are still looking for quality meals but are tired to cooking. Companies are filling the gap with meal kits with specialty, restaurant-quality foods that offer shortcuts to meal preparation.
Foods that protect the planet. Brands that feature sustainable ingredients, upcycled ingredients, or environmentally friendly packaging will see higher sales.
Seafood alternatives will see growth. Marine farming, seaweed and algae will become sustainable options.
More balance between health and indulgence. Overall well-being will take center stage with a desire to use food as a reward. To balance the two, brands will add functional ingredients to snacks, chips, drinks, and other foods.
International flavors will become new kitchen staples. From dishes to condiments a new group of globally inspired condiments, sauces, oils, and seasonings will infuse everyday meals.
Heat is everywhere. Heat has jumped out of the hot sauce category and found its way into honey, spreads, candy, beverages, and snacks. Brands will be introducing heat and spice into existing product lines from cheese to chocolate to chips.
Packaging takes on prominence. Brands will use innovative packages to increase sales. Sustainability, decreased mass, and composability will be seen in new packaging for established brands.
