Food trends reflect the impact of the pandemic by Covid-19 and the year 2021 will not be the exception.
According to a ranking prepared by ‘Whole Foods Market’, consumers will opt for healthier and more sustainable foods.
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Interest in probiotics, superfoods and 100% plant-based ingredients will be the focus of demand, as they are ingredients that can strengthen the immune system and promote care for the planet.
“Confinement measures and health alarms have made people reconnect with food on multiple levels, now we reflect on the origin and impact of our food. The FAO and the United Nations have warned about the climate footprint, deforestation and loss of biodiversity caused by animal products, while pointing to intensive livestock farming as one of the possible drivers of future pandemics,» said Diamela Covarrubias, Director of Sinergia Animal, an international NGO that promotes plant-based diets.
Vegetable meat substitutes, fortified foods and upcycling
With the increase in teleworking, an improvement in the first meal of the day is expected, as people have more time to cook at home. According to research from Whole Foods, breakfasts that include pancake mixes and egg alternatives may gain wider acceptance in the coming year. At the same time, parents will demand fortified plant-based foods for their babies with innovative packaging and functional ingredients like omega-3-rich flaxseeds.
While meat consumption reports its biggest drop in 9 years, plant proteins such as chickpeas, mushrooms and plant-based meat substitutes will take a big hit, according to the report.
These preferences are complemented by the rise of ‘supra-recycled’ foods that can help reduce waste and food waste.
The ‘plant-based’ rage reaches Latin America
Latinos will also be part of the change in habits. A recent study, led by Ingredion and the consulting firm Opinaia, found that 90% of South Americans are interested in consuming plant-based foods to achieve a healthier diet. The survey records that in 67% of the countries surveyed (Colombia, Chile, Brazil, Argentina and Peru), sustainable brands are considered important.
“At Sinergia Animal we have perceived these transformations through campaigns such as the ’21 Days Veg Challenge’, a program for people who want to reduce and eliminate the consumption of products of animal origin. The initiative has been well received in Colombia, Chili Y Argentina, where we already have 30,000 registered”, explained Covarrubias. The program is 100% free and those registered receive a daily newsletter with advice, recipes and tips designed by a specialist nutritionist.