Predicting Food Industry Trends
Filed under: Food Marketing
Low carb, low fat, low sugar, organic, natural, functional foods... What will be the latest trend? It's always difficult to predict where trends will go in the food industry. But we do know that there are some basic facts that are undeniable.
We're all getting older... With this comes a whole host of issues. Cardiovascular disease in its various forms will continue to get attention. As the population ages, mental acuity, glucose management and energy have also become more important.
Obesity... Our population has grown larger, not so much in numbers as in pounds. The availability, economics and consumption of foods coupled with our sedentary lifestyles have pushed the scales to unprecedented levels. This has caused the term "diabesity" to emerge with the resulting factor of diabetes as a result of weight gain.
Convenience... Consumers, while they're trying to eat more at home, are still looking for convenient ways to consume and prepare meals to keep up with their hectic lifestyles. This convenience should come without the sacrifices of taste and health.
All wrapped up in flavor... More unique, specific flavors are reaching the market. Baby boomers are looking more and more to food as an experience. They are also evaluating foods based on their content and potential to treat certain conditions. A far cry from the standard meat & potatoes meal of long ago.
Balance... Whatever the latest trend, balance is still the key to much in life, particularly food. A behavior established based on a proper diet combined with exercise still makes a lot of common sense. It isn't a silver bullet, or quick fix, but a long-term sensible approach. As fads like low fat and low carb continue to come and go, as certain consumers look for that quick fix, these fads continue to provide an opportunity for consumers to learn and become more knowledgeable about food and nutrition. This also provides the opportunity for manufacturers to provide better tasting, more healthful foods.
Gary Augustine is vice president of Jones and Thomas, Inc., downstate Illinois' largest advertising, marketing, and public relations agency. View Bio | View Posts
Gary Augustine is vice president of Jones and Thomas, Inc., downstate Illinois' largest advertising, marketing, and public relations agency.