• According to Mintel, three key factors are driving current industry trends: indulgence, convenience and value. So what innovations are emerging from prioritizing these aspects and what impact are they having on the food and beverage industry?
Originality attracts attention
Consumers are always looking for original flavors and textures. A recent survey conducted by Mintel shows that 22% of consumers always prefer originality in their food choices, and another 29% choose it in most cases.
On the other hand, only 1% of respondents said they would never opt for original flavors. Even though the survey focused on American consumer preferences, the trend of trying new foods, flavors and textures is manifesting itself globally.
Consumers are open, even eager, to explore adventurous flavors, agency analyses show Innova Market InsightsThe demand for flavor diversity is growing in the food and beverage industry.
Breakfast takes on a new dimension
Innovative and unique products, such as flatbread croissants, egg selections, and baked potato mixes, are quickly becoming popular among consumers of all ages at breakfast.
Platters with multiple variations of a product, such as eggs or potatoes with different toppings, are gaining ground due to their popularity on social media.
Social media inspires everything from unique flavor combinations inspired by international cuisines to new culinary techniques adapted to current food trends.
Social media has become a true barometer in the field of gastronomic trends, allowing companies to anticipate and respond to the ever-changing desires of consumers.
Thus, flattened croissants, topping mixes, and other breakfast innovations are expected to appear on supermarket shelves in the coming period.
Seasonal ingredients are gaining ground
Seasonal flavors are playing an increasingly important role in consumer preferences. While pumpkin spice is a classic example, new ingredients are gaining ground. Pecan, combined with flavors and textures like chocolate or vanilla, offers a complex taste experience.
Mintel surveys indicate that 43% of consumers prefer products that contain ingredients associated with a particular season. For example, desserts with strawberries and raspberries are preferred in the warmer months, while those with blackberries and plums are more popular in the cold season.
And this trend isn’t just limited to desserts. There’s a clear opportunity for manufacturers to capitalize on consumer enthusiasm by highlighting seasonal ingredients in their products.
Therefore, food companies should create products that celebrate the seasons to attract consumers who are passionate about this trend.
Casual restaurants remain consumers' favorites
The concept of casual dining continues to dominate consumer preferences. Mintel shows that 46% of consumers prefer this option, compared to just 19% who opt for fine dining.
As a result, certain product segments, such as ready-to-eat meals, have seen significant sales increases. The European ready-to-eat meals market is valued at $94,34 billion and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 5,01%, according to data The report of Statista.
Easy-to-cook ingredients, such as pasta, are also on the rise, with a European market value of $27,75 billion and an annual growth rate of 4,71%.
Costs remain a key factor in product choice
Another major factor influencing consumer behavior is price.
Consumers continue to face high prices for both home and out-of-town meals, forcing them to adapt their eating habits. At the same time, producers are also feeling the pressure of rising production costs.
People are increasingly paying attention to value for money. But a quality product that offers real value for money is more important than a low price. This does not mean that price does not matter, it just means that they are willing to pay more if they perceive the product as valuable.
To address this concern, manufacturers should focus on quality, offering fresh recipes with a short list of less processed ingredients and quality proteins.
The food and beverage industry is evolving rapidly, with consumers changing their preferences based on multiple factors. Manufacturers that can meet these demands will have a clear competitive advantage in today's dynamic market.
Article written by Gabriela Dan, Editor-in-Chief Arta Albă
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