As with all other industries, the food industry is no exception. What is interesting about food trends is that they are usually driven by consumer behavior. Some are more ephemeral, while it is hoped that others will persist over time. A look at the food trends of 2021.

A More Vegetable Diet

The trend had already begun in recent years, but 2021 will mark a marked growth in plant food. Whether we think of the number of people adopting a vegetarian or vegan diet, or all the omnivores who are trying to reduce their consumption of meat and animal products, we see that the trend is here to stay.

Alternative Proteins

With the current growth of the world’s population, the demand for meat will quickly outstrip supply and we will have no choice but to turn to alternative proteins.

In addition to the traditional tofu and lentils, we are now turning to insects and algae for our protein intake.

A varied diet of home-cooked food is now favored and ultra-processed foods, soft drinks, and alcohol are avoided. We also focus on the factors surrounding meals, such as eating in good company, enjoying our food, and learning to recognize our satiety signals.

Organic is Growing

Similarly, there is an increase in the supply of organic food. More and more producers are turning to this type of agriculture and this translates into a more varied supply for organic food consumers.

Local Consumption and the blue Basket

With the Covid and the upheavals we are going through, we have refocused on more responsible consumption that promotes local products. Support for local trade is more important than ever, let’s hope that this trend is sustainable.

Reducing Food Waste

It is hoped that this trend is not one, but a real change in behavior. Consumers are increasingly fighting a war on plastics and it is desirable for the industry to make changes in this regard as well. In addition to the rise of bulk, zero waste, and attempts to limit unnecessary packaging, consumers also want to limit food waste. So you learn to cook parts of food that were traditionally abandoned or discarded. We cook delicious homemade broths with our vegetable peels, we use the radish fanes in our salads or soups, we preserve the citrus zests to make an all-purpose homemade cleanser. In short, no more food waste!

Fermentation

Already in fashion for some time, fermentation continues to grow! Kombucha, kimchi, kefir, and miso are in the spotlight in most modern kitchens. Fermentation is also a return to the roots, the terroir, and more traditional cuisine. In addition to allowing food to be stored effectively, fermentation enhances the value of food and aids digestion through the good bacteria it gives it.

How about specific foods and ingredients? The following 10 foods are becoming more and more popular recently.

1. Acai Berry

The acai berry is one of the berries that have the wind in its sails lately and is a hit! Like all her berry counterparts, she is very rich in antioxidants and is one of those superfruits with multiple health benefits. Indeed, it allows us to repel free radicals, fight fatigue, cholesterol, and bring us plenty of vitamins.

But beware: the fat-burning virtues that some not very honest sites lend to it have in no way been proven, so we stop associating the acai berry with a slimming diet.

2. Quinoa

Quinoa is a cereal that increasingly replaces rice or semolina in our diet, and is also eaten in salads, soups, or as an accompaniment. Very nutritious, quinoa also provides us with protein, iron, and fiber.

But if you want to be at the forefront of the trend, it’s already time to get to kaniwa, the latest in the quinoa family!

3. Fonio

Fonio is a cereal from Africa that is currently making the best days of organic stores. What for? Because it brings to our body fiber, vitamins, calcium, manganese, zinc… but no gluten!

This is the latest fashionable cereal especially appreciated by people who are allergic or gluten intolerant!

4. Kale

Kale cabbage is a vegetable whose nutritional qualities are more than interesting: anti-oxidants, vitamins A, C, K, potassium, calcium… a real cocktail!

That’s why in recent months we see it everywhere, we talk about it everywhere, and we find it as well in juice, salad, or chips with an aperitif.

5. Red Eggplant of Rotonda

The red Rotonda eggplant is THE new anti-aging vegetable that everyone would like to get away with. Anti-aging, because it is particularly rich in antioxidants and phytosterols, which help the body fight aging.

The bad news? For now, this red eggplant is still only grown in southern Italy… Note, that’s a good excuse to go!

6. Buckwheat tea (Sobacha)

Sobacha is a drink straight from the land of the rising sun, which is prepared by letting roasted buckwheat (kasha) infuse in boiling water. And it’s clearly in the process of becoming THE new favorite detox drink of people. The proof? She was inducted by Gwyneth Paltrow herself, who loves her detox virtues, but also anti-oxidant and slimming.

The icing on the cake: since it does not contain theine, it can be drunk all day without any problems.

7. Chia

Well, chia seeds may not have a super glamorous name, but they have enough to make it forget! Very rich in omega 3, soluble fiber, protein, iron, calcium, anti-oxidants, folic acid, chia seeds are small but strong.

We can add salads, yogurts, or prepare them in porridge or pudding.

8. Maca

Maca is a root of the radish family that comes from South America, where it has been consumed for many years. And if it starts to make its hole in France and Europe, it is because it is known for its energizing side.

And to say the least: maca powder is a concentrate of vitamins A, B, C, E, calcium, zinc, magnesium, phosphorus, amino acids… Added to a vegetable smoothie or fresh fruit juice, it will allow us to fuel all day long!

9. Lactose-free Dairy Products

Lactose-free dairy products are increasingly sought after by lactose critics, who accuse them of causing bloating and digestive discomfort.

To pamper our body from the inside, focus on lactose-free dairy products and vegetable milk: coconut milk, almond milk, soy milk, etc.

10. Tempeh

Tempeh is something that will make all vegetarians who are tired of having only the tofu to get under their tooth say “wow”!

Coming from Indonesia, tempeh is made from fermented soy and mushroom. In taste, it reminds a little of the mushroom, but also yeast and walnut.

Following this brief overview of 2021 food trends, what do you say about trying to incorporate them into your diet? After all, it’s the perfect time to make some small positive changes in your diet to start the year off on the right foot!