As we look to the future, it’s essential to understand the direction of food trends in 2023. Every year, the foodservice industry faces both cyclical and generational changes as innovations in technology and the preferences of consumers evolve. As a head of sales in the food distribution industry, you need to stay ahead of the curve in order to capitalize on opportunities, capture market share, and boost revenue.
The food and beverage distributors have a unique view of the trends in this space, gaining direct data on what’s selling, what’s not selling, and what strategies are being adopted by competitors. With this insider knowledge, you can establish your own trends and attract more customers. Here are ten tips to keep in mind as you prepare for the food trends of 2023.
1. Shift towards Plant-based Foods
One of the biggest food trends in 2021 was the shift towards plant-based foods. This is expected to continue in 2023, as more people seek out healthier and more sustainable options. For foodservice distributors, it’s important to ensure that you are stocking a variety of plant-based products to meet customer demand. Whether it’s vegan chocolate milk or tofu ice cream, the more plant-based options you can provide, the better.
2. Utilization of Healthy Fats
The trend towards healthy eating continues with the use of healthy fats. Consumers are seeking out foods that not only are delicious, but are packed with beneficial ingredients like omega-3 fatty acids. Foodservice distributors should take advantage of this trend by stocking products that are made with healthy fats. s include hemp and chia seeds, avocado oil, and coconut cream.
3. Flexible Meal Plans
As fewer people are able to go out to eat, flexible meal plans are becoming increasingly popular. These plans allow people to customize their meals to meet their dietary requirements and preferences. Foodservice distributors should look for products that can be used in a variety of recipes, making it easier for customers to create their own meal plans.
4. Low-Alcohol and Low-Calorie Beverages
As people increasingly become more health conscious, there has been a rise in low-calorie and low-alcohol beverages. These options are providing an unprecedented level of choice for consumers who are looking to cut back on their alcohol intake. Foodservice distributors should look to stock options that are going to satisfy this demographic.
5. Focus on Local
In 2023, there will be a continued focus on local ingredients and products. Consumers are gravitating towards buying locally-sourced items, as this reduces their carbon footprint and supports their local economy. With this in mind, distributors should consider stocking items from local producers and farmers that offer a unique and distinctive flavor profile.
6. Cultured Foods
The trend towards cultured foods, such as mushrooms and cheese, has been gaining traction over the past few years. In 2023, this trend is expected to continue as customers seek out more natural and artisanal products. Additionally, these products often times take time to produce, and as such can often lead to a stronger price point.
7. Exploring Ethnic Cuisine
The pandemic has had an interesting effect on the consumption of ethnic cuisine, as more people stayed in and cooked. This has led to an increase in consumer knowledge of ethnic cuisine and empowered them to explore flavors and ingredients that they may have been hesitant to try before. Foodservice distributors should consider stocking items that are used in ethnic cuisine, as this can be a great way to attract a new customer base.
8. Focus on Sustainability
In the current climate, sustainability has become increasingly important. Customers are seeking out foodservice distributors that prioritize eco-friendly practices, from biodegradable packaging to locally-sourced ingredients. Foodservice distributors should consider these factors when selecting products and creating strategies.
9. Ready-to-Eat Options
As a result of the pandemic, ready-to-eat options have become increasingly popular. These options provide convenience and ease of preparation for customers who are looking for a quick and easy meal. For foodservice distributors, stocking these products could lead to greater profits as customers seek out convenience.
10. Healthy Snack Foods
As people become more health conscious, there has been an increase in demand for healthier snack options. This includes items such as popcorn, nuts, and healthy bars. Foodservice distributors should stock these products in order to attract more health-conscious customers.
Overall, 2023 is sure to be an exciting year for the food and beverage industry. From the rise in plant-based foods to the continued focus on sustainability, there are a host of factors to consider when it comes to food trends. Thanks to the insights provided by Brizo, foodservice distributors are better equipped to capitalize on opportunities and lead the way in the food and beverage industry.
By understanding the key trends for 2023 and remaining ahead of the curve, foodservice distributors have the ability to establish themselves as an industry leader.
