The International Food Information Council has revealed trends emerging for 2023 that focus on health and well-being and planet-conscious food solutions.
Wellness will continue to be top-of-mind, particularly in the form of better-for-you beverages. A survey by the company found that 37 percent of Americans have sought food and beverages to provide “more energy and less fatigue.” Alternative caffeine choices, like yerba mate, yaupon tea, and more are likely to gain traction. Gen Z participants surveyed listed emotional and mental health among the top food benefits desired from food.
On the topic of food-as-medicine, digestive/gut health through the ingestion of probiotics grew in popularity in the U.S. IFIC said to expect interest in both pre- and probiotics to leave the yogurt section with non-traditional items like chocolate, ice cream, sauces, and more being infused with the bacteria.
Plant-based options have continued to proliferate over the past few years, expanding beyond dairy and meat into other categories like pasta, rice, and snacks. Many products in this space implement upcycling techniques to help minimize production waste. IFIC notes that consumers are becoming more comfortable with innovative alternatives, which is expected to continue to grow.
One meat alternative that is gaining ground is cultivated meat, which is meat derived from animal cells. “In 2023, Americans will become increasingly familiar with meat derived from animal cells,” it said.
“Natural” and “clean” claims on labels continue to grow in popularity. According to an IFIC survey, more Americans in 2022 vs 2021 said they regularly buy products labeled as “natural” or mention “clean ingredients.” Clean eating was also one of the top diet choices that respondents said.
On the planet-conscious side, a reevaluation of the food system through a lens of diversity, equity, and inclusion has taken place. In a 2022 Food and Health Survey by the company, 45 percent of consumers in the U.S. said that fair and equitable worker treatment is a part of their food purchasing decision. Agencies like the White House, USDA, and UNESCO have taken interest in emphasizing the importance of diversity and cultural traditions.
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