It’s early 2023, and the global food system is in a state of flux. As consumers continue to demand new food trends, food service providers are scrambling to keep up and innovate. This challenge is especially true when it comes to catering to consumer’s rapidly changing preferences regarding flavor trends. Whether you’re a restaurant owner, food manufacturer, or restaurant technology provider, you need the best data and analysis you can get to stay ahead. With that in mind, here is a list of the ten most important things to consider when following flavor trends in 2023.
1. Know Trends by Region
Different geographic markets have wildly different tastes, and you need to be on top of these preferences to stay ahead of the pack. Most metropolitan markets prefer food and flavors that are considered more “exotic” and “experiential” while rural and smaller cities prefer more traditional dishes. By understanding the nuances of regional cuisine, you can better anticipate and fulfill consumer expectations.
2. Use Technology to Your Advantage
Our ability to acquire data and migrate it between platforms has become much easier in recent years, and technology can provide invaluable insights across all facets of food and flavor trends. By leveraging proven technology, you can more closely manage customer requests to ensure they’re satisfied on every level.
3. Understand Local Markets
Doing research on local markets and suppliers will be instrumental in adapting your menu and food-sourcing strategies to particular regions. Also, consider going out to restaurants and trying different dishes that are popular in the area to get an idea of what works and what doesn’t.
4. Understand Dietary Needs
One of the biggest drivers of flavor trend is the increased demand for foods that cater to specific dietary needs. As diners become more health-conscious, consciously monitoring nutrient intake, it is essential to account for these changes in your menu.
5. Adapt to New Cooking Technologies
The industry has seen a steady move toward sous vide cooking in recent years, which allows food to be cooked at an even, low, temperature, and this technology promises to provide many exciting flavor possibilities. As a food service provider, you should be looking to incorporate alternative cooking techniques that will produce interesting and delectable dishes.
6. Variety is the Spice of Life
Offering a wide variety of dishes and flavor profiles is essential when trying to make your restaurant stand out. Instead of just serving one or two dishes, give your customers an array of options to pick from, while still conserving your budget.
7. Keep on Top of Ingredient Quality
It’s essential to keep quality ingredients in stock; don’t merely look for the lowest cost option. Rather, explore different sturdy suppliers and take the time to do research into their ingredient sourcing.
8. Utilize Alternative Sales Models
You can no longer depend on the traditional sales model to survive in the food service industry. Consider catering to delivery, pickup, and pre-order models to create a more convenient experience for customers.
9. Assess Food Delivery Services
Customer interactions don’t always have to happen in person. Make sure to look into delivery services in your area that can bring meals straight to diners’ doorsteps.
10. Embrace the Possibilities of AI
Artificial intelligence can provide significantly more accurate insights than traditional methods, and its potential for restaurant owners and food manufacturers is tremendous. By utilizing AI, you can better understand customer trends, better anticipate their tastes, and ultimately, better improve both the customer experience and the bottom line.
Flavor trends 2023 are an exciting, yet daunting prospect for restaurant owners and food manufacturers alike. By looking at the above considerations and adapting accordingly, it is entirely possible to remain at the cutting-edge of flavor trends, as well as maximize sales.
