2018 Food and Beverage Trends

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The top eating pattern cited was intermittent fasting (10%). Diets considered at least somewhat restrictive of carbohydrates were well-represented, including Paleo (7%), low-carb (5%), Whole30 (5%), high-protein (4%), and ketogenic/high-fat (3%). Younger consumers (age 18 to 34) were more likely to follow a specific eating pattern or diet than those 35 and above.

This year’s theme, “Ancient Inspirations,” pairs frozen DOLE® fruit as blackberry, mango, cherry and pineapple with spices, grains and ingredients from around the globe. To ensure that the dishes are approachable and appeal to a wide range of patrons, the Dole culinary team has chosen to reinvent familiar menu items with these exciting flavor combinations.

First, let’s start with a new product that defies category: Henry's Hard Sparkling Water. That’s right, an alcoholic sparkling water.

Wanting to pick out their own fresh items was the top barrier to their shopping online for groceries, followed by not wanting to pay a delivery fee. Many consumers (46%) who are lapsed online grocery shoppers or have never shopped online like that walking through a store remind them of what else they need.

Among the flavors already creating buzz in the US, Middle Eastern cuisine has become an inspiration for fusion flavors, ‘less sweet’ desserts featuring ingredients such as olive oil and vinegar are gaining popularity, and functional ingredients are adding color and flavor to food and drinks.

While almond (64% market share), soy (13% market share) and coconut (12% market share) remain staples in the category, new non-dairy milk types are sparking excitement as consumers look to diversify their non-dairy milk repertoire. Indeed, new varieties have experienced fast growth in popularity as two thirds (63%) of those who have purchased pecan milk say they bought more pecan milk in 2017 than in 2016, while 58% of quinoa milk consumers say they bought more quinoa milk in 2017 than the year prior.

Thousands of new brands hit retail shelves during 2017, with 49% of the top-ranking brands hailing from small manufacturers — defined as those earning less than $1 billion annually — and accounting for 26% of Pacesetter dollars. Overall, the top-selling 200 new brands captured cumulative year-one sales of more than $4.6 billion across IRI’s multi-outlet geography.

Demand for ethnic and international foods continues unabated as American consumers of all backgrounds discover more innovative and exotic flavors and formats.

Take a stroll through the fresh and frozen aisles to discover a variety of new, on-trend breakfast options.  Fresh, value-added shredded potatoes mixed with diced onions and peppers in the produce aisle are perfect for a quick and easy hash.  In the egg case, pre-made breakfast bowls offer a convenient meal incorporating whole ingredients including potatoes, veggies and eggs.  And in the frozen section, choose from a variety of breakfast burritos, sandwiches and bowls to accommodate virtually every dietary concern.