The whole world is experiencing a noticeable shift towards sustainability, especially when it comes to food. People across the globe are demanding more transparency and conscious production in the foods they eat, the packaging they come in, and the farming practices used to produce them.
Considering this, we can expect to see plenty of new sustainable and mindful food and eating trends coming into the picture. Here are the movements expected to take over the market this coming year.
#1: Mindful Eating
Mindful eating is a popular movement among people who want to know more about where their food comes and how it is produced like some casino gamers researching more about the slots available at various sites. The trend encourages people to be active participants in the food choices by making smart, informed decisions. For now, price will continue to drive the purchases of most people, but at the same time the number of people eager to make healthier choices for themselves and the planet is growing.
Europe and North America are seeing the biggest shifts right now, with younger generations like the Millennials and Gen Zs driving a migration towards regional cuisines, plant-based food, and sustainably farmed animal products.
#2: Food Activism
This year has seen the rise of climate activism thanks to Extinction Rebellion and the likes of Greta Thunberg. Next year, experts think a move towards food-focussed activism is likely, especially considering the impact of certain foods on the climate, biodiversity and human health. The climate impacts of meat and dairy will probably be a major focus.
Food activism in 2020 will also extend to food packaging. Humanity is currently facing a plastic crisis, and new consumer demands and government regulations will push companies to find alternative biodegradable solutions to harmful plastic and polystyrene packaging.
#3: Plant-Based Power
Demand for vegan and plant-based foods is set to skyrocket next year, with the market estimated to reach at least $140bn by 2025. some studies suggest that 30% of the meat-eating market will switch to plant based alternatives in 2020.
A recent YouGov survey found that 63% of Millennials are trying to add more plant foods to their diets, despite backlash against the vegan movement. Either way, meals in 2020 will definitely contain less sugar, saturated fat and processed ingredients.
#4: Clean Ingredients
People are fast starting to demand clean ingredients in their food products. As a result in this change of consumer demand, countless food companies have committed to using simple, nutritious and recognisable ingredients in their foods.
This will also force companies to steer clear of genetically modified products, added sugars, preservatives and flavourants. Foods that enhance people’s well-being with nutrients, fibre and antioxidants will be the stars of the show this coming year.
#5: Regenerative Agriculture
Regenerative agriculture is something of a buzzword lately. It refers to the practice of using farming methods that do less harm to the environment and help to restore and support ecosystems and communities instead. The movement will likely bring an end to large scale till farming, and replace it with fair trade agreements, cover cropping, silviculture composting and holistic grazing.