Appetizers are just as anticipated as the main course! Actually, these days, appetizers are sometimes taking the place of the main course. Consumers are loving handheld appetizers to eat on-the-go, while also gravitating towards small plates and tapas as a way to get a little taste of a lot of different cuisines and dishes. As the appetizer category is heating up – in both foodservice and the frozen section – it’s time to take a closer look at the trends moving this category forward. Keep reading for our experts’ takes on the top trends to watch for – and get inspired by – in the appetizer category.
Putting Seafood Front & Center
It could be because of the rise of the pescatarian diet, or just health and wellness trends in general, but seafood has been seeing a major boost recently, especially when it comes to the appetizer category. In fact, Mintel reports that seafood-based items experienced the most growth over the past three years when it comes to appetizers in foodservice. Pair familiar and popular seafood options, like shrimp, scallops, and calamari, with trending flavors to give consumers something to get excited about. Think harissa calamari, smoky dill shrimp skewers, and spicy pineapple scallops.
Another option? Look to seafood-forward dishes from around the world for appetizer inspiration. Items like shrimp tempura sushi rolls, Peruvian style ceviche, and crab samosas are sure to be a hit with adventurous consumers.
Innovating with Plant-Based Bases
The plant-based trend is seemingly everywhere these days, influencing new product launches and menu introductions in many, if not all, categories. Of course, the appetizer category is no exception. Consumers are craving cauliflower, chickpeas, and more plant-based bases, presenting the perfect opportunity to feature these popular ingredients in appetizers. Buffalo fried cauliflower, crispy chickpea pakora, and broccoli & black bean tostadas, for example, are all items that put the plant-based trend in the spotlight.
Don’t be afraid to innovate with flavor and step outside of the box when it comes to plant-based appetizers. Although more consumers are trying plant-based items, the majority of consistent plant-based consumers tend to skew younger. These consumers want brands to really “get” them, meaning that they will favor brands that not only help them achieve their health and wellness goals, but also that allow them to explore new and exotic flavors at the same time.
Celebrating Street Food
A few years ago, street food from around the world started trending. And it hasn’t slowed down since. Consumers are continuing to explore the foods and flavors of different corners of the world. This presents a major opportunity for the appetizer category, as brands can translate these popular and authentic street foods into bite sized and handheld appetizers. These items are already, for the most part, designed for portability, making them ideal for consumers who are always on-the-go.
What street foods are starting to pick up steam in the appetizer category? Bao buns from China, empanadas from Spain, falafel from the Middle East, and crepes from France are all rising in popularity. Look to these for inspiration for next-level appetizers that will truly delight adventurous consumers.
Ready to revamp your appetizer offerings? Our R&D experts have got you covered! Contact us today to see how Fuchs can help you make something special.