Production and logistics in the food industry
A diversified consumer base and more global travel are creating adventurous consumers – two of the current trends in the food industry. People are more willing to try new foods and flavors. New product introductions are inspired by global foods and spices. These and other trends point to an empowered and connected global consumer who demands more authenticity and story, diverse alternatives, and a commitment to sustainability and world improvement. Bross supports its clients in adapting and optimizing their production facilities and supply chain to the above trends.
Current trends in the food industry
Social Media
Finally, social media – which connects consumers to the world – also connects them to their plates. Social media gives individual consumers the ability to not only share what’s on their plate, but also a platform through which they can communicate with brands and companies and even participate in the food development process.
Health
Consumers are changing the way they think about health. This development represents one of the most important trends in the food industry. It is no longer just about nutrition, as people are looking at health in a more holistic and intuitive way. Consumers want to eat food that makes them feel good, whether physically, emotionally or mentally.
New products
Millennials are shaping society’s approach to mealtime with their penchant for snacking. This is just one of the many trends in the food industry with the result that 63% of millennials are replacing meals with snacks. As a result, food manufacturers are focusing on snacks for new products, even if they are not typically considered snack products.
Low barriers to entry
These trends in the food industry are shaking up the landscape of business and innovation. The barrier to entry for new food companies has never been lower, and smaller entrepreneurial food companies are finding success in their ability to be creative and nimble to meet consumers’ high demands for transparency, innovative products, and commitment to values like sustainability and health. Large food companies are no longer innovation leaders, but they are finding success by investing in these smaller companies.
Alternatives
America is a carnivorous culture, so meat is never going away, but we may see a slight decline as well as more diverse options for meat and meat alternatives. This leads to the third major trend: alternatives for all. Consumers are looking for alternative meat, alternative dairy, and even alternative fish. The popularity of plant-based and growing vegan and vegetarian populations has people demanding more diverse alternatives to all of these animal foods.
Traceability
The most important trends in the food industry are sustainability and traceability. Sustainability in particular is gaining momentum. This could range from improved traceability and accountability in the supply chain to sustainable packaging.
