Last year saw the rise of meat-less-meat, alcohol-free beers and spirits, and plant-based proteins. As we move into 2019, it’s predicted these trends will step up a gear and develop further as health, wellbeing and environmental concerns stay very much front of mind. Will Dann looks at five trends set to shape the food and drink industry this year.
- Fermented foods
The popularity of fermented foods and drinks has been growing for a while, but this year they are set to go mainstream as we all seek to be ‘good to our guts’. Fermenting, pickling and brining have been used as a way to preserve food for centuries, but this year will see the practice showcased further due to its health-boosting probiotic properties.
- Cannabis cocktails
Last year, barely a week went by without the news of another big business jumping on the cannabis drinks bandwagon as the ‘green economy’ drew power players like Diageo and Constellation into its fold. With a growing number of cannabis-based drinks in development, we’ll soon start to see CBD and THC-infused innovative serves popping up on cocktail menus at some of London’s more forward-thinking bars.
- Pegan diet
The Pegan diet—a vegan hybrid of the paleo approach – is becoming increasingly popular with health influencers. The diet, created by Dr. Mark Hyman, recommends that people avoid dairy, grains and legumes, eat plenty of fruit and vegetables, and get the majority of their fat intake from nuts and seeds.
- Eco-packaging
This year will see a huge rise in eco packaging. Companies such as global brewer Carlsberg with its Snap Pack began paving the way last year, and others are swiftly following suit. One example is the heat seal sandwich pack which can extend the shelf life of sandwiches beyond that of the existing same day pack.
- Goat meat
According to BBC Good Food magazine, goat meat will be one of the biggest food trends of the year, as it has been highlighted as one of the more ethical food choices. Supermarkets have reportedly already been testing recipes for goat sausages, meatballs and even ready meals, and a number of London restaurants are featuring goat dishes on their menus.