Despite the growth of consumers at or over the legal drinking age, the share of consumers drinking alcohol with any regularity is declining. Interestingly however, although alcohol consumption in the glass declines, alcohol is increasing as a flavor in savory and sweet items.

Perhaps the most significant effect social media has had on the food industry involves the visual narrative around food and beverages.

After a decade or more of focusing largely on the needs, preferences, and behaviors of Millennials, the food industry is ready to focus its attention on Gen Z.

For the last several years, there's been a culinary shift and belief that food derived from foreign cultures should seek to be authentic or feature authentic elements.

For the industry to truly be innovative, and continue to be relevant well beyond the Millennial boom, insights professionals will need to look well outside of food to better anticipate consumers' changing relationship with food.