FreshDirect, the online grocery platform, announced Monday its top food trends picks for 2023. The company’s team of food, wine, and spirit specialists curated the annual list which forecasts up-and-coming products, ingredients, and influences.
“Led by our best-in-class merchant team, FreshDirect is consistently on the pulse of what’s trending and what’s to come in the online grocery marketplace,” said Scott Crawford, chief merchandising officer at FreshDirect, in a statement. “Our extensive and long-standing relationships with farmers, fishermen, artisans, and producers, combined with our proprietary data systems, enable us to determine the next wave of industry innovation and the latest in customer interests and needs. 2023 will usher in a new year of online grocery trends that underscores the ever-growing need for convenience, value, and most of all, the best in fresh quality.”
The company has found that DIY experiences have resonated with consumers and will continue to do so into the new year. Social media has increased the popularity of do-it-yourself items such as butter boards, which have given way to artistically decorated breakfast and dessert boards.
Novelty treats like Ring Dings, mini powdered donuts, and retro cocktails are making a return as shoppers indulge in old favorites.
Locally sourced products and conscious consumption are two ways that FreshDirect identifies consumers will continue to feel connected to their food. Supporting local economies, better freshness, longer shelf-life, and discovering unique products are some reasons why consumers choose to buy locally. Consumers also want transparency in the food they consume and have taken an interest in buying from brands that are more values-based or mission-driven. Popular brands and products include White Moustache’s handmade yogurt, Bowery Farming’s pesticide-free crispy leaf lettuce, and Brooklyn Delhi’s Tikka Masala Indian summer sauce.
Private label market share will continue to grow in 2023. The company notes that value-seeking customers will continue to gravitate toward private brands, such as Nature’s Promise, in both shelf-stable and fresh categories.
Related: Natural Grocers Prognosticates Trends; IRI: Private Label Experiences Modest Gains