2024 Foodservice Trends

Foodservice establishments have long been known as prime locations for consumers to explore and discover new trends. Whether it’s a special occasion or a simple night out, consumers love to visit restaurants to find fresh flavors and dishes to try. Although foodservice has experienced a bit of a downturn amidst inflation, restaurants of all types have been innovating to meet consumers’ evolving needs and to make going out to eat seem worth it when money is already tight.

With a reputation as trendsetters for food and flavor, all eyes are on foodservice establishments to inspire consumers’ next obsessions. From technological advances to new and emerging flavors, foodservice experiences and menus are looking substantially different compared to just a few years ago. Foodservice trends tend to reach far beyond the restaurants that set them, inevitably influencing the retail market in the not-so-distant future. Keep reading for our experts’ insights on some of the latest trends shaping the foodservice industry and how those trends continue to translate onto retail shelves.

The Future is Here

To understand how consumers’ preferences and expectations for foodservice have changed and continue to change, we must first look at how the processes of the foodservice industry have been modified over the years, especially when it comes to technological advances. Consumers have the world at their fingertips. The use of artificial intelligence (AI) and advanced technologies is becoming the norm in foodservice, helping to shape consumers’ demands, while also making it easier to influence trends through social media and online resources. From customized food recommendations to streamlined processes, artificial intelligence has caused major shifts in many aspects of the foodservice business, and it’s only just the beginning. Read more in depth about AI in the foodservice industry in one of our recent blogs.

Growing Flavors in Foodservice

Spicy flavors were all the rage in 2023, and we don’t see that trend going anywhere in 2024. Sweet and savory flavors have quickly become new favorites for consumers as well and are both predicted to be popular among consumers throughout 2024. Sweet flavors, like chocolate chunk and salted caramel, and savory flavors, like loaded baked potato and fire roasted tomato, have been on the rise as some of the most popular flavors in foodservice.

Foodservice flavor trends have also been embracing nostalgia, with more comforting and indulgent options on the menu. Classic “home cooking’ has also seen a resurgence, and foodservice establishments have been capitalizing on this trend by elevating familiar favorites by giving them a modern makeover.

With stress level seeming to never fall, consumers have been leaning into this trend wholeheartedly, seeking out flavors that deliver a sense of comfort and nostalgia. Retail brands can get inspired by this trend by drawing inspiration from trending nostalgic and comforting dishes and flavors that are becoming ubiquitous in foodservice. One option? Bring the flavors of these dishes directly to retail products.

Another option? Innovate with simple, familiar flavors like honey mustard and sweet potato, which contain sweet and savory notes that can provide a sense of comfort to consumers of all ages. Creating innovative products with these classic flavors is easily accomplished through flavor mashups. Think a spicy salted caramel trail mix or maple honey mustard pretzel. Drawing inspiration from emerging flavor trends in foodservice is a clear way meet consumers’ demands through innovative retail food products.

Adventure is Right Around the Corner

Although consumers have been loving comforting flavors, they also are expressing continued interest in exploring exotic flavors. In a post-pandemic world, consumers are seeking out ways to satisfy their desires to explore the world, and trying foods that reflect the diverse flavors found around the globe is a sure way to do that. In foodservice, Caribbean, Mediterranean, and Asian are just a few global cuisines that have been trending lately. One way consumers are incorporating global flavors is through condiments and sauces. Chili crisp, salsa macha, and other globally inspired condiments are becoming increasingly prevalent in foodservice, setting them up for success in retail in the near future.

We know from 2023 trends that consumers are interested in trying new flavors and cuisines, but food brands should also recognize that there is now an interest in becoming an “expert” in those cuisines. Many consumers have found international cuisines and flavors that they know and love, and now it’s time to explore those cuisines further to discover flavors that may not be as “mainstream.”

Foodservice trends have and always will be an indicator of what we can expect to see hit the retail shelves. Try innovating with less familiar global flavors to create retail products that consumers won’t be able to get enough of.

Ready to develop a product consumers will totally crave? Contact us today to see how Fuchs can help you create something special.