Who Will Be Eating What in 2014?

Selling food in any retail channel today requires insights with a global view.  The Culinary & Baking Institute (part of the Campbell Soup Company) has identified what consumers are currently eating, as well as what to expect in 2014. This study was released as part of their first-ever Culinary TrendScape report. Here is what they found would be the 2014; 10 most popular food trends:

• Brazilian cuisine – Rio de Janeiro will bring the country’s seafood stews, grilling techniques and local ingredients into the culinary spotlight when it hosts the 2014 World Cup and 2016 Summer Olympics.
   
• Food waste awareness – Root-to-leaf cooking, repurposing leftovers and composting food scraps at home are all gaining traction with consumers.
   
• Fresh juices – Craving better-for-you balance through “juicing,” the health-conscious are “going green” to refresh and recharge.
   
• Sophisticated sweets – Spices, botanicals and fresh takes on fruit are hitting the dessert scene.
   
• Yogurt goes savory – Greek-style yogurt is showing up in savory, non-spoonable applications like condiments, baked goods and snacks.
   
• Beverage-inspired flavors – The bar has inspired the kitchen, with barrel-aged, bottled and brewed flavors moving beyond public-house glasses into everything from hot sauces to barbecue.
   
• Bolder burgers – America’s iconic sandwich is changing with the times, with new buns, unique burger patty options like chicken, lamb, elk and brisket and a range of toppings.

The insights from a global retailer are important.  Campbell’s culinary monitoring and tracking system that identifies and categorizes impactful food topics highlights how American tastes are evolving as a result of global influences and greater awareness of sustainability and nutrition.

www.FoodserviceSolutions.us Steven Johnson is Grocerant Guru at Tacoma, WA based Foodservice Solutions, with extensive experience as a multi-unit operator, consultant and brand/product positioning. Since 1991 Foodservice Solutions® of Tacoma, WA has been the global leader in the Grocerant niche