The plant-based trend has entered a new era! While this trend is here to stay, the specific ingredients that consumers are seeking out continue to change as they update their preferences. Notably, plant-based ingredients that intersect with other trends, like the functional ingredient and global cuisine trends, are starting to see growth. These types of ingredients are ideal for appealing to a wide range of consumers, as they meet more than one in-demand attribute.
With consumers’ preferences constantly evolving, it’s important to pay close attention to the plant-based ingredients picking up steam in foodservice. In this blog, our experts offer their insights into what’s on the horizon for the plant-based ingredient trend.
International Ingredients, Of Course
Unsurprisingly, the plant-based ingredient trend has not gone untouched by the international cuisine trend. As with most food categories and ingredient trends, the plant-based trend is being influenced by the dishes, flavors, and ingredients that consumers are discovering as they explore the world through new food experiences.
One of those plant-based ingredients is pandan, which is a tropical plant hailing from Southeast Asia that delivers a unique sweet and floral aroma to everything from beverages and baked goods to side dishes and sauces. Pandan has witnessed a rise in demand, as consumers seek out natural flavors and plant-based ingredients. Similarly, ube, a purple yam that is a key ingredient in Filipino cuisine, has been winning over consumers for its unique flavor and vibrant color.
In alignment with both the plant-based trend and functional ingredient trends, consumers are also trying to incorporate more fruit into their diets. Tired of the same options, they’ve turned to the exotic fruits they’ve become acquainted with through their global cuisine explorations. Guava, black lime, yuzu, and calamansi have been trending recently as a result.
Going Against Well-Known Grains
While grains like brown rice and barley will always be popular, consumers are branching out as they seek to diversify the plant-based ingredients in their diets. Health-conscious consumers, especially, are on the hunt for grains that help them meet certain nutritional targets. Millet, for example, has seen a surge in popularity, thanks to its high protein and fiber content.
Grains that are common in global cuisines are also on the rise, as consumers grow increasingly familiar with them through their culinary explorations. Couscous, which is a staple grain in Northern Africa and parts of the Middle East, has been trending on social media as an ingredient in cold salads featuring cucumbers, tomatoes, herbs, and other fresh ingredients. Farro, which is commonly featured in Mediterranean cuisine, too, is quickly becoming a favorite for consumers.
Looking to innovate with up-and-coming plant-based ingredients? Look no further. Our experts are well-versed in crafting flavor solutions for a variety of plant-based products. Contact us today to see how Fuchs can help you make something special.