Food trends may be fickle, as with the 'unicorn food' that has
most likely reached its peak, but some are more enduring. According
to at least one restaurant survey conducted in the US, the trend of
plant-based protein is sticking around for awhile. The survey found
that alternative proteins, along with bold flavors, will resonate with eaters in 2019.
Millenials and members of Generation Z are driving the continued
interest in plant-based proteins and other restaurants trends,
according to the survey conducted by the National Restaurant
Association. "Consumers, especially Millennials
and Gen Zs, are much more knowledgeable about food and want to eat
as healthfully as they can. Many have adopted vegetarian and vegan
diets and this trend fits right in with those eating patterns. It
gives them the opportunity to indulge and experience flavors and
textures similar to those they might experience with, say, a beef
burger, but without straying from their intended dietary
habits," said Hudson Riehle, Senior Vice President of
Research for the association.
Other items with growing interest are "globally
inspired breakfasts" (think shakshuka), new cuts of meat (how many
ways can you cut up a cow?), and culinary cocktails. Bold flavors
are also on the rise, according to research conducted by the survey
firm Innova Market Insights. The firm found that over 25% of US,
UK, and Chinese consumers are moving toward more "exotic or
adventurous" flavors.
Photo of Shakshuka from
Scraps, Peels & Stems by Jill Lightner