We’re all over 2020, with 2021 bringing optimism that it won’t be like the current year we’re mired in.
According to Whole Foods Market, one thing we’ll have to look forward to is exciting new 2021 food trends. They recently revealed what we might be able to expect as far as 2021 food trends with the release of its annual top ten forecast.
Whole Foods’ Trends Council is made up of around 50 team members, including buyers and culinary experts, and each year, the council compiles trend predictions based on product sourcing, consumer preferences, and emerging brands. This year, the council found that 2021 trends will reflect how the food industry is adapting and innovating in response to COVID-19.
“There have been radical shifts in consumer habits in 2020. For example, shoppers have found new passions for cooking, they’ve purchased more items related to health and wellness, and more are eating breakfast at home every day compared to pre-COVID,” says Sonya Gafsi Oblisk, chief marketing officer at Whole Foods Market. “Food trends are a sign of the times, and our 2021 trends are no exception.”
Without further ado, check out some of the food and drink trends Whole Foods is tabbing for 2021.
Coffee-Flavored Foods and Drinks
“The love affair between humans and coffee burns way beyond a brewed pot of joe. That’s right, java is giving a jolt to all kinds of food. You can now get your coffee fix in the form of coffee-flavored bars and granolas, smoothie boosters and booze, even coffee yogurt for those looking to crank up that breakfast parfait.” says Gafsi Oblisk.
Upcycled Foods
“Peels and stems have come a long way from the compost bin . We’re seeing a huge rise in packaged products that use neglected and underused parts of an ingredient as a path to reducing food waste . Upcycled foods, made from ingredients that would have otherwise been food waste, help to maximize the energy used to produce, transport, and prepare that ingredient. Dig in, do good.”
Related: Four food trends you should be aware of
New Kinds Of Cooking Oil
“Slide over, olive oil . There’s a different crop of oils coming for that place in the skillet or salad dressing. At-home chefs are branching out with oils that each add their own unique flavor and properties. Walnut and pumpkin seed oils lend a delicious nutty flavor, while sunflower seed oil is hitting the shelves in a bunch of new products and is versatile enough to use at high temps or in salad dressing.”
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