Foods & Beverages that Spark Joy: Trends Supporting Mental Health

Alongside renewed focus on physical health and wellbeing have been trends related to supporting mental health through food and beverage products. Consumers have been faced with increasing stress and pressure from a variety of social, political, economic, and interpersonal factors. As they’ve been seeking outlets for managing their stress, they’ve turned, in part, to food and beverage products for support. This has presented a wide range of brands with an opportunity to introduce products that emphasize relaxation, stress-relief, self-care, and comfort. Keep reading for our experts’ takes on how this trend is taking hold in the market – and what may be on the horizon.

Soothing Ingredients

Consumers have looked to food and beverages to help them manage their stress, in part, because of the functional ingredient trend. Rather than go to the pharmacy for prescriptions to manage potential health and wellbeing issues, some consumers have preferred to look for more natural solutions. This has put various ingredients that may have calming effects into the spotlight, winning over consumers who want healthier – and often plant-based – options for relaxing after a long day. From lavender and other botanicals to CBD and spices like ginger, functional ingredients that may promote stress relief and relaxation are in-demand with consumers.

Brands that recognize the challenges associated with consumers’ stressful lifestyles – and offer them products that support them – are sure to be hits with consumers. Consumers want to be able to unwind and feel good about doing so. As they continue to prioritize stress relief, they’ll be on the hunt for products that feature functional ingredients that can help them relax. Consider integrating these ingredients into familiar products to appeal to stressed out consumers. Or innovate around these ingredients to shake up things and give consumers something new to try to manage their stress and unwind.

Comforting Classics

Stress makes consumers yearn for simpler times. With that comes cravings for nostalgic comfort foods. Unsurprisingly, in times of heightened uncertainty, demand for products like chocolate chip cookies and mac and cheese tends to increase as consumers lean on familiar favorite foods and beverages to lift their spirits. There’s a major opportunity for brands to innovate around these foods to give consumers something that simply makes them happy.

One option is to get inspired by the flavors of popular nostalgic foods and beverages and to bring them to new and unexpected categories. Think a fried chicken and waffles dip or a tomato soup cracker. Another option is to add a new twist to these familiar favorites. Adding trending ingredients like smoked poblano peppers to mac and cheese or bacon and gouda to mashed potatoes is a great way to give consumers a new way to experience the foods and beverages that they love and lean on in times of stress.

Ready to innovate with functional ingredients and comfort foods? Our experts have got you covered! Contact us today to see how Fuchs can help you make something special.