Food Trends 2023

According to food industry experts, 2023 will likely be a year of diverse and innovative food trends. Customers can expect to see more cooked and dried fruits, interesting bar snacks like pork rinds, alternatives to meat such as pea-based proteins, single serve products with global flavors, and health-conscious items like vegan ice-cream. These food trends offer something for everyone while meeting consumer demand for convenience. The challenge businesses face is in making these tasty innovations available to customers at an affordable price. With the increased interest in healthy eating and sustainability, companies have a significant opportunity to make a meaningful difference by keeping up with food trends as we head into 2023. Here are a few to watch out for:

Plant-based meat alternatives: With more and more people looking to reduce their meat consumption for health and environmental reasons, plant-based alternatives are becoming increasingly popular. Companies like Beyond Meat and Impossible Foods have made strides in creating plant-based options that mimic the taste and texture of real meat. Expect to see more options popping up in grocery stores and restaurants in the coming year.

Sustainable seafood: With overfishing and pollution becoming major concerns, more people are looking to make sure the seafood they eat is caught or farmed in a sustainable manner. Look for certifications like the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) and the Aquaculture Stewardship Council (ASC) to ensure that your seafood is responsibly sourced. Websites like Seafoodwatch.org and Fishchoice.com can also provide guidance on sustainable options.

Ancient grains: With the popularity of gluten-free and low-carb diets, ancient grains like quinoa, millet, and amaranth are becoming more mainstream. These grains have been around for thousands of years and offer a variety of health benefits, as well as a unique taste and texture.

Immigrant cuisine: Immigrant-owned restaurants and food trucks have been around for a while, but in the coming year, expect to see more fusion and crossover dishes as chefs combine traditional techniques and ingredients from different cultures.

Mindful snacking: As people become more aware of the impact of their food choices on their health and the environment, there will be a growing demand for snacks that are not only satisfying, but also nutritious and sustainably produced.

As always, these are not the only trends, and some may evolve or dissipate. But these are the most notable and relevant for the year 2023.