KeHE Distributors said Thursday that it has identified the top macro trends in the food and beverage industry to inform retailers’ product selections for 2024. Experts from KeHE identified seven predicted trends for the coming year.
“Natural and organic, specialty, and fresh products remain relevant as consumers have become more environmentally aware and health-conscious,” said Westly Weaver, director of customer insights and growth solutions at KeHE, in a statement. “We look forward to seeing the innovative and forward-thinking products that brands will bring to the food and beverage space to align with new consumer preferences.”
Following are the seven key food and beverage market macro trends predicted for 2024:
• Better for Us: Consumers are concerned about their personal health as well as the health of their children and pets. This is leading to an investment in household staples, specifically food that is clean label, organic certified, free-from, and nutrient-dense.
• Redefined Convenience: The meaning of convenience has evolved in the lives of customers, as consumers are not trying to stay out of the kitchen or eat on the go, and instead are trying to become more efficient in their cooking.
• Seeking Sustainability: According to Mintel, about 75 percent of consumers say they try to act in a way that is not harmful to the environment and 42 percent of Gen Z and Millennial shoppers say that sustainability and environmental claims are more important than price.
• Influenced Foods: Influencers using their social media platforms to create food trends are leading to an increase in social media-inspired food choices, global cuisines, and exciting flavors.
• Finding Functionality: Consumers are more frequently turning to food as a means of achieving their health and wellness goals, with a focus on energy, gut health, immunity, cognitive health, and hydration.
• The Real Deal: Rather than limiting indulgences or foods that can be perceived as less healthy, the consumer mindset is shifting to a search for quality ingredients that include real dairy, real sweeteners, and quality meats and cheeses.
• Nutrient-Focused Consumers: Due to the increased awareness around health and wellness, consumers are seeking foods that are rich in essential nutrients like protein, vitamins, and minerals to prevent chronic disease and illness.
Related: Cross-Cultural Cooking Named Trend of the Year; Commuters Fuel Coffee, Tea, Donut Boom