As PR girls, staying on top of the latest food and drink trends is super important! It helps us understand what people are interested in and how their preferences are changing. By keeping an eye on trends like RTDs or gut-friendly foods, we can create campaigns that really connect with consumers.
Knowing what’s popular helps us position our clients in the best way possible, making sure they stay relevant and exciting. In a fast-moving market, being up to date with food and drink trends isn’t just helpful – it’s essential!
Drink Trend: RTD cocktails and mocktails
Ready-to-drink cocktails and mocktails are revolutionising home entertainment. With stylish packaging and premium ingredients, these beverages offer the convenience of bar-quality drinks at home.
Brands are now offering a wide variety of pre-mixed cocktails that range from classic favourites like Margaritas and Mojitos to innovative new blends. These cocktails are made with premium ingredients, ensuring a high-quality drinking experience. They come in sleek, portable cans or bottles, making them perfect for picnics, parties, or simply relaxing at home.
For those who prefer non-alcoholic options, Ready to drink (RTD) mocktails provide the same level of sophistication and flavour. These drinks are crafted with a focus on fresh, natural ingredients, offering a refreshing alternative without the alcohol. Flavours such as cucumber mint, elderflower tonic, and blood orange spritz are becoming increasingly popular.
Food trend: Gut-friendly food
As awareness of gut health continues to grow, so does the demand for gut-friendly foods. These foods are rich in probiotics, prebiotics, and other nutrients that support a healthy digestive system.
Fermented Foods: Fermented foods like kimchi, sauerkraut, and kombucha are packed with probiotics that aid in digestion and boost the immune system. These foods have become mainstream, appearing in a variety of dishes from salads to sandwiches.
Prebiotic-Rich Foods: Prebiotics, which are non-digestible fibres that feed the good bacteria in the gut, are also gaining popularity. Foods like garlic, onions, asparagus, and bananas are being incorporated into diets to support gut health.
Food trend: Veggie and pulse snacks
With an increasing number of people adopting plant-based diets and becoming more mindful of their snacking habits, veggie and pulse snacks are becoming a go-to option for healthy snacking. These snacks are not only nutritious but also delicious and satisfying.
Veggie Chips: Chips made from vegetables like kale, beetroot, and sweet potato offer a crunchy, flavourful alternative to traditional potato chips. These chips are often baked instead of fried, making them a healthier option.
Pulse-Based Snacks: Pulses such as chickpeas, lentils, and black beans are being transformed into a variety of snacks. From roasted chickpeas to lentil chips, these snacks are high in protein and fibre, providing a nutritious boost.
Food trend: Sustainable Seafood
As concerns about overfishing and environmental impact grow, sustainable seafood is becoming a key trend. Consumers are seeking out seafood that is responsibly sourced and harvested to ensure the health of ocean ecosystems.
Aquaculture: Farmed fish, particularly those raised in sustainable aquaculture systems, are gaining popularity. These systems are designed to minimise environmental impact and produce high-quality seafood.
Alternative Seafood: Plant-based and lab-grown seafood alternatives are emerging as viable options. These products aim to replicate the taste and texture of real seafood while reducing the environmental footprint.
Drink Trend: Functional Beverages
Functional beverages that offer health benefits beyond basic nutrition are capturing the interest of health-conscious consumers. These drinks are formulated with ingredients that support specific health goals, such as increased energy, improved focus, or enhanced relaxation.
Adaptogenic Drinks: Beverages infused with adaptogens like ashwagandha, ginseng, and maca are designed to help the body manage stress. These drinks are often combined with natural flavours to create soothing, calming blends.
Hydration Plus: Enhanced water and electrolyte drinks that go beyond basic hydration are also trending. These beverages often include added vitamins, minerals, and natural flavours to support overall wellness.