Seven Food and Beverage Trends for 2024
Mood on the Menu
The idea that food influences physical, emotional, and mental wellbeing is gaining traction. The International Food Information Council (IFIC) predicts a greater emphasis on how nutrition can support mental and emotional health, with a focus on supplements for women’s health and foods and beverages that aid in mood improvement, stress reduction, and better sleep.
Function-Focused Hydration
Functional beverages will take center stage in 2024, redefining hydration with clean caffeine, sleep-supporting drinks, and added pre- and probiotics for gut health. Water stewardship will also become more important as consumers seek out foods and drinks that require less water to produce.
Plant-Based Innovations and Protein Snacking
Plant-based proteins will continue to be popular, with an emphasis on protein-fortified products and protein-focused snacks. Plant-based seafood will also rise in popularity. Products fortified with protein, such as rice, pasta, baking mixes, and snack foods, will trend in the market.
Rise of Third-Culture Cuisine
The celebration of different cuisines and identities, known as third-culture cuisine, will be on the rise. This trend will include a re-examination of monosodium glutamate (MSG), as myths around its negative effects are debunked. Consumers will re-evaluate MSG’s place in the kitchen, especially those looking to reduce sodium while maintaining flavor.
More Than Just a Label
Transparent food labeling will become increasingly important in 2024. Labels associated with healthiness, such as “clean,” “cold-pressed,” and “fermented,” will be at the forefront. Consumers value attributes like freshness, low sugar content, and a good source of protein when defining a healthy food.
AI on the Plate
Consumers will turn to the digital universe for health, nutrition, and food safety information. The use of AI, such as ChatGPT, will help improve eating habits, provide answers to food safety and nutrition questions, and assist in meal planning. AI will also have a behind-the-scenes impact, leading to resilient supply chains, reduced food waste, precision farming techniques, and innovative product formulation.
Swipe, Like, Eat
Social media-driven snacking and cooking trends will continue into 2024. 51% of Americans have tried a new recipe, 42% have tried a new brand or product, 29% have tried a new restaurant, and 28% have reassessed their relationship with food because of social media. Many individuals have made healthier choices based on information seen on social media platforms.