Food

When the pandemic storm has passed, will we all be more health-conscious eaters?

Restaurant industry trendwatchers think so. Consumers are becoming more mindful, says the Mintel 2021 Global Food and Drink Trends report, and seeking foods that nourish their physical and emotional health. 

Immunity, to no one’s surprise, is a hot topic. At the end of 2020, Tastewise reported a:

• 23% increase, month over month, in consumer interest in immune-boosting food and beverages
• 7% increase in interest in vitamin and prebiotic-rich foods and drinks
• 5 % increase in interest in gut health (with a significant 40 percent boost in the last year)

Here’s a look at three ways this intensifying interest in health may be reflected in food menus in the year to come.

Predicting the next big flavor trends has long been foodies’ favorite sport. In 2019 it was celery juice and milk tea; in 2018, it was charcoal ice cream and artisan pickles. But then, well you know, 2020 happened.

This year, restaurant operators may not be inclined to experiment with novel spice blends or exotic vegetables. But they still want to surprise and delight pandemic-weary customers, so it’s worth paying attention to the trends. Here’s a small taste of what we might be tasting in 2021.