Ingredients to Watch in 2023

It’s that time of year again! With 2022 coming to a close and 2023 right around the corner, it’s time to start talking about what trends are going to be hot in the new year. Consumers have particularly high expectations for fresh takes on innovation at the start of the year, so expect new trends to take hold quickly in the coming weeks. Our team of experts keeps track of trends year-round to get a sense of what’s on the horizon for the industry at any given time. Here are our takes on a few of the ingredients to watch in 2023.

Citrus. Health continues to be a top priority for consumers, with immunity support as one of the leading health properties consumers look for in their food and beverage products. Packed with vitamins, citrus fruits will be exactly what consumers are seeking out as they make their New Year’s resolutions and work on bolstering their immune systems during cold and flu season. Expect citrus and citrus flavors to be in demand. Exotic citrus fruits like yuzu, in particular, will be sure to be hits with health-conscious consumers.

Pistachios. Almonds, cashews, and walnuts have all had their turn in the spotlight, but in 2023, it will be all about the pistachio. Consumers have been craving earthy flavors, and pistachios deliver exactly that – plus an array of potential health benefits. Better yet, consumers love “eating the rainbow” by adding colorful foods to their diet, making vibrant green pistachios all the more appealing. From baked goods and ice cream to salad dressings and snack mixes, pistachios are about to be everywhere.

Dates. Interest in natural sweeteners is driving an increasing number of consumers to try dates. Their potential health and wellness benefits paired with their sweet flavor makes them perfect for consumers who are trying to treat themselves without the guilt. This inevitably will lead to more products featuring dates, including snack bars, baked goods, and beverages going into 2023.

Seaweed and Kelp. Sustainable snacking? In the eyes of consumers, few things could be better. Concerns about climate change and the carbon footprint of the food industry have led consumers to seek out products that are more sustainable. Enter seaweed and kelp. Not only are these ingredients sustainable, but they’re also packed with nutrients, potentially providing various health and wellness benefits. So far, products and menu items featuring seaweed and kelp have been embraced more so by younger consumers. Older consumers, however, have been expanding their horizons and becoming more adventurous. As more consumers look for sustainable food products, we’ll see seaweed and kelp featured in various categories, like snacks, frozen food, and more.

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