Overview
This webinar is in partnership with The Food People.
It may feel like things haven’t changed significantly since the report last year, and in essence, the lockdowns mean life has been on pause for many. Individual trends have benefited from a boost post pandemic - healthy foods and drinks or comfort foods on the other end of the spectrum. Most of the shifts witnessed are a direct result of the pandemic and the new way of living.
After the last 18 months of chaos, consumers have continued to put health and wellness firmly centre stage and look forward with a mindset of healthy me, healthy planet. This has continued to evolve beyond vitamin-rich, fortified and immunity-boosting. The Millennials and Gen Zs are willing to talk freely and publicly about mental health – this has helped remove the stigma. Products targeting mental focus, clarity and relaxation have been abundant. Snacking is an ingrained part of their eating repertoire, and snacks must now fulfil a multitude of need states above taste and fuel.
'Conscientious Consuming' has surged, as consumers look to reuse, recycle and cut costs accordingly.
When the plant-based movement emerged, there was skepticism whether this would be another fad, like other diet trends of the past like Atkins. However, this looks set to be one of the most enduring trends of the 21st century.
Sensible sipping is the word on the lips of youngsters. Move over sugar sodas and alco-pops, there are new kids on the block - low/no alcohol and hard seltzers.
After an intense, uncertain period, many seek a bit of fun via food and drink moments. From mash-ups to twisted classics, epic sandwiches to loaded comfort foods – fun with food has been the tonic for many.
Brunch has become the meal of Gen Z and millennials. Their appetite for diversity and new tastes is fueling global influences in brunch such as Mauritian-inspired egg and tomato stew by Ottolenghi or the traditional Upma, a South Indian dish made from seasoned and sautéed semolina and noodles.
A new mega trend for this year is Street Food Eats. Despite life in lockdown, street food operators were determined not to be defeated. These stalls, by nature, are takeaway designed, and as such, they didn’t have to pivot like other restaurants. Instead, they were ready to serve customers who could get their favourite eats delivered by anything from Uber Eats to Deliveroo.
Join us at 12 pm for an hour on the second of 3 webinars over the week.
