Top vegan trends operators should know about
Once tagged as ‘boring’, veganism has since become a necessary staple in foodservice.
Cruelty-free meat alternatives, healthy fat foods and edible flowers are some of the vegan-friendly trends that customers should reportedly expect to “see anywhere”, according to Infiniti Research.
The market intelligence solutions provider’s latest report explains that the past decade “witnessed a rise” in veganism, with new vegan food trends, ingredients and innovative recipes now available in the marketplace.
“Today, vegan food has moved away from being tagged as ‘boring’ to more delicious options. One trip to the market or a retail store is enough to understand the progress that plant-based eating has made, as last year’s vegan food trends have become grocery-store staples now,” Infiniti Research said.
Responding to consumers pursuing such options, manufacturers have reportedly become “more conscious” while catering to those demands. “For instance, big brand names like Ben & Jerry’s, Breyers, Häagen-Dazs, and Halo Top have introduced vegan flavors recently.”
Below are some of Infiniti Research’s picks of the vegan food trends this year:
Meat alternatives
Cruelty-free meat alternatives is one of the vegan food trends that has been going mainstream in recent times. Recently, there has been a huge rise in innovative plant-based options, including lab-grown meat made from cultured animal cells. Last year, we witnessed an increase in the popularity of meatless burgers such as those from Impossible Foods and Beyond Meat. And now they’re becoming available at restaurants and grocery stores across the nation.
‘Black food’ trend
Activated charcoal is one of the most innovative and healthy vegan food trends doing the rounds today. They are known for being able to draw toxins from the body and help with your well-being. Activated charcoal also lowers cholesterol and supports digestive health. Vegan food companies have introduced food trends like charcoal ice-cream and water that are becoming highly popular among the vegan population.
Full-fat everything
Fat is back in trend. Vegan food products that are high in fat content, such as avocados, coconut, nuts, and seeds instead of processed, are becoming favorites among people. These vegan food products ensure that consumers intake healthy fats, which are not harmful to their body.
Vegan desserts
Giving up on desserts and other tasty foods are one thing that gives people second thoughts about going vegan. But not anymore. As more people realize that desserts can be awesome without animal products, they have begun to find substitutes for eggs and dairy in their sweet treats. This year, we are guaranteed to see a revolution in the field of vegan desserts. You can expect vegan donuts glazed with maple syrup, vanilla icing or filled with delicious jam, and many more.
Edible flowers
Edible flowers were used, in the past, only for pretentious dishes in Michelin-starred restaurants. But edible flowers have now become one of the most popular vegan food trends among food addicts. Vegan food companies have started to incorporate such flowers in dishes prepared in the comfort of their own home thanks to vegan foodies showcasing beautifully floral dishes on social media platforms like Instagram and Pinterest. The most popular choices of flowers in vegan food include pansies, carnations, and nasturtiums.
