Sports nutrition, meat and dairy alternatives and the stories behind crafted products are some of the key trends driving the healthy retail revolution.
According to Mintel Global Food Science analyst, Laura Jones, food trends are shaped now more than ever by lifestyle shifts marked by changes in food preferences. Global markets, mass connectivity and a draw to simple back-to-basics philosophy also put weight on recent food trends.
“Shoppers continue to want to know more about a product, its maker and inspiration and as a result ‘craft’ products are increasingly being seen on the shelves,” Jones said.
“Honest communication about the thought that went into making, producing, packaging and selling a product can connect with consumers – and companies of all sizes are tapping into this trend by launching ‘craft’ products,” she said.
According to Mintel, greater consumer health awareness and the growth of specialty diets has seen consumers opt for more meat and dairy alternatives as healthy options, just as the rise in athletic programs has spurred sports nutrition and functional ingredients into the mainstream.
Australians’ growing appetite for healthy food and lifestyles, coupled with an increase in allergies and specialty diets, is fuelling an $11.3 billion industry, with retail sales of natural and organic products in ANZ forecast to hit $12.6 billion in 2016, according to Nutrition Business Journal.
Jones will present “Healthy appetites: What consumers want now” looking at these and other trends at the Naturally Good Expo, 1-2 May, at the Royal Hall of Industries, Moore Park, Sydney.
