Food is not only a necessity, but also a delight that most people can’t resist. Food trends have been an integral part of the culinary world and keep changing every year. With 2021 halfway through, it’s time to look at the hottest and most delicious popular food trends of the year.
1. Sustainability and Local Sourcing
Sustainability and local sourcing have gained significant momentum over the years, and the trend continues in 2021. Customers prefer locally sourced and sustainable food, which is grown, prepared, and served within a reasonable range. Consumers today pay more attention to where their food comes from, how it’s prepared, and the packaging it comes in. They are more aware of the impact their food choices can have on the environment. A recent report shared that 77% of consumers consider sustainability an essential aspect of their food purchasing decisions.
2. Comfort Food
The pandemic has led to a rise in demand for comfort food as consumers looked for familiar and comforting flavors. Dishes like mac and cheese, pot pies, burgers, and fried chicken have seen a resurgence in popularity. The demand for these dishes has been so high that even high-end restaurants have started adding them to their menus.
3. Plant-Based Diet
There has been a shift in the way people perceive plant-based diets. The focus is on incorporating more plant-based options, with the vegan diet gaining popularity. With companies like Beyond Meat and Impossible Foods increasing their popularity, it comes as no surprise that more people are replacing meat with plant-based products. According to the Plant-Based Food Association, the plant-based food industry has seen a 27% increase in sales in 2020.
4. Ethnic Cuisines
Exploring ethnic cuisines has been a trend for a few years now and is showing no signs of slowing down. With people of diverse backgrounds and cultures, restaurants are adopting new ethnic cuisines. According to a recent report, global cuisines saw a 30% increase in menu items, and dishes with ethnic flavors and ingredients are gaining popularity. Burmese, Filipino, and West African have been some of the most trending cuisines.
5. TikTok Food
TikTok has been a game-changer in the food industry, inspiring home cooks and chefs alike to showcase their creativity. Trends like the viral pasta recipe, baked feta pasta, and cloud bread have taken social media by storm. TikTok’s popularity has been a boost for small businesses as well, with many food products going viral, resulting in more sales.
Conclusion
2021 has seen different food trends that are reshaping the culinary world. Sustainability and local sourcing are taking the spotlight, with consumers placing an emphasis on environmentally friendly choices. Comfort food, plant-based options, and ethnic cuisines are also seeing a surge, and TikTok is influencing the food industry in ways that no one anticipated. With half the year remaining, it will be interesting to see what new trends emerge and take the food industry by storm.
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