The experts at American International Foods, Inc. have unveiled their annual projections for the top industry trends anticipated in 2024. The AIFI team has conducted a thorough analysis of prominent food and beverage industry trends in the United States, as well as other notable trends that are expected to see growth in the U.S. this year. Below find our top 25 Trends for 2024 as well as our 2024 Trend Map which provides a holistic view of the link between macro and micro trends across the food and beverage industry.
About American International Foods, Inc. (AIFI)
American International Foods, Inc. has over 20 years of experience in helping its clients effectively predict and respond to trends in the food manufacturing sector. AIFI provides its customers with unparalleled industry knowledge, personalized supply chain solutions, and a complete product line comprised of more than 2500 food and beverage ingredients.
Breaking Down 2024 Food Industry Trends: A Comprehensive Guide for Manufacturers and Processors
Last year, American International Foods successfully identified several food and beverage industry trends, such as the continued growth in popularity of ingredients including avocado oil, date sweeteners, mushrooms, and chickpeas. In 2024, we take it a step further, breaking down how each trend fits within the greater food and beverage landscape and how these trends are often intertwined.
In the fast-paced realm of the food industry, understanding and strategically responding to emerging trends is key for manufacturers and processors to maintain a competitive edge and drive growth. The landscape of 2024 presents a nuanced range of trends, each with its own driving factors. Understanding these trends is crucial for manufacturers and processors looking to thrive in this dynamic landscape.
Health & Wellness
Health and wellness trends are characterized by a heightened focus on personalized nutrition and minimally processed ingredients, driven by consumer awareness of the link between diet and well-being. From functional foods tailored to specific health needs to the increasing popularity of plant-based options like mushrooms and alternative proteins, manufacturers are innovating to meet evolving consumer demands for nutritious and sustainable dietary choices.
Functional Foods:
Driven by the growing consumer awareness of the link between diet and health, demand for personalized nutrition is on the rise, with tailored dietary solutions gaining traction. Fermented foods and products that promote a healthy gut microbiome, such as pickles, kimchi, and sauerkraut, have been gaining traction for some time. Products targeting women’s health are particularly in demand, incorporating ingredients like inulin fiber, Jerusalem artichoke, garlic, and whole grains. In addition to personalized nutrition and gut health, adaptogens and nootropics- often referred to as “Mood Foods,” – will rise in popularity as consumers seek foods that provide additional benefits to their health. Look out for products containing popular adaptogens and nootropics, including ashwagandha, ginseng, turmeric, and mushrooms. The market for functional foods is expected to evolve further as consumers seek individualized dietary regimens that meet their specific needs. Incorporating ingredients that provide benefits to gut, brain, and overall health presents an opportunity for manufacturers to innovate in functional foods.
Plant-Based:
With concerns over environmental sustainability and personal health, the shift towards plant-based diets continues to gain momentum. Beyond traditional plant proteins like soy and pea, ingredients such as mushrooms, microalgae like spirulina, and chia seeds are gaining popularity as sources of plant-based protein. Mushrooms including Chaga, Lions Mane, Cordyceps, and Shiitake are being incorporated in formulations across food and beverage due to their high protein levels and various adaptogenic characteristics. In addition to naturally occurring plant-based proteins, advancements in food technology and extensive R&D work are opening the doors to new plant-based possibilities. Fermented and cultured protein are the newcomers to the trend, allowing for breakthroughs in the manufacture of plant-based meat alternatives and plant-based seafood, a trend that has been picking up traction since late 2019. The diversification of plant-based options presents opportunities for manufacturers to capitalize on consumer demand for sustainable and nutritious alternatives. Expectations are high for innovative plant-based products as consumers expect products that mimic the taste and texture of its conventional counterpart.
Natural Ingredient Labels:
Heightened consumer interest in clean label foods is gaining traction, reflecting a broader trend towards transparency and authenticity in food products. Ingredients with minimal processing are at the forefront of this trend, with natural sweeteners and ancient grains leading the charge. Classic sweeteners including maple syrup, honey, and molasses are popular among consumers seeking to eliminate or reduce refined sugars. Natural sweeteners syrups such as agave and date will remain a popular option in formulations, and novel sweeteners including monk fruit, stevia, and allulose are expected to gain ground. New ingredients such as cocoa pulp and grape sugar are expected to break into the sweeteners scene in 2024. In addition to the demand for more natural sweeteners, consumers are also looking to the opposite end of the food pyramid. Whole and ancient grains like amaranth, buckwheat, farro, quinoa, and teff are making a comeback due to their nutritional value and heritage appeal. Buckwheat is expected to see a resurgence nearly a decade after quinoa came back into fashion with consumers. The appeal of natural ingredients is expected to continue as consumers prioritize health-conscious choices. Manufacturers can explore formulations using alternative sweeteners, ancient grains, and other minimally processed ingredients to cater to evolving dietary preferences.
Flavors
Global Flavors:
Driven by the globalization of palates and culinary exploration, consumers are seeking authentic taste experiences from around the world. With the population of Latinos steadily growing in the US it should come as no surprise that Mexican and Latin American flavors are on the rise. According to the U.S. Census Bureau over 1 in 4 Americans will be of Latino descent by 2060. Hispanic and Mexican flavors are seeing a stark rise in popularity with traditional flavors such as churro, dulche de leche, chili-lime, adobo, and sazon seeing a rise in popularity. In addition to traditional flavors, products containing traditional regional ingredients such as nopales, or prickly pear cactus, has the potential to grow. In addition to traditional Latino and Hispanic flavors, Asian flavors are also on the rise. Asian tropical fruit flavors are experiencing heightened interest as products containing, dragon fruit, Mango, Lychee have experienced success historically. Expect to see products containing lesser-known Asian fruit flavors such as Yuzu, Pomelo, and calamansi come to market. In addition to fruit flavors, ube, matcha, cherry blossom, and Korean barbeque flavors are peaking consumer interest as well. The demand for globally inspired flavors is expected to grow as consumers seek diverse culinary experiences and cultural immersion through food. Manufacturers can leverage these trends by incorporating authentic global and regional flavors into their product offerings.
Nostalgic Flavors:
Driven by consumer demand for comforting experiences and familiar tastes, nostalgic flavors are expected to be in full swing in 2024. American classics like s’mores, apple pie, peach, orange creamsicle, and childhood favorites like grilled cheese and peanut butter & jelly are currently popular among consumers. Also expected to see global nostalgic flavors such as churro and chili-lime spice come into popularity.
Fusion Flavors:
Consumer flavor exploration and experimentation are at an all-time high. In 2023, Innova’s Flavor Survey uncovered that 1 in 3 Gen Z and Millennial consumers are most influenced by new/unique/different flavor combinations when making a food or beverage purchase. While the flavor possibilities are truly endless, fusion flavors are expected to one of the leading flavor trends in 2024. These creative combinations can be characterized by their blend of contrasting elements such sweet and sour, sweet and smoky, and sweet and spicy aka “Swicy”. Trending swicy flavor combinations like hot honey, thai sweet chili, and chili lime are on trend and expected to grow. In addition to fusion flavors, there has been a shift In the traditional flavor profiles of beverages and baked goods. Beverages and baked products are increasingly being launched in savory flavors such as cheese, rosemary, smoke, and botanicals. Snacks have gone the opposite direction adopting sweet flavors such as cinnamon-sugar, honey, and even chocolate. This flip-flop of flavors represents consumers desire to experience new bold flavors and reimagined formats.
Convenience
On-the-go lifestyles, single-serve options, and the demand from consumers for convenient food options have created a plethora of Ready-to-eat and heat and eat products. This has also led to a demand for premium single serve offerings and premium convenience snacks. Little indulgences and premium single serve treats have gained popularity as consumers seek indulgent experiences while remaining conscious of their health. Consumers have shown they are willing to splurge for premium experiences and products that provide them. Another trend we expect to see in convenience is the growth premium instant noodle market as consumers seek new flavorful and convenient dishes. Convenience will remain a key driver of consumer purchasing decisions, necessitating the development of innovative single-serve, on- the-go and premium offerings. Manufacturers must balance convenience with quality to meet the evolving needs of consumers.
Food Budgeting
With an increasing emphasis on value and affordability, consumers are seeking ways to save without compromising on taste or quality. Many consumers are having to make decisions at the store shelves as they work to stretch their food budget to the limits. Private label offerings and cost-conscious options cater to the diverse needs of these cost-conscious consumers.
Sustainability
Sustainability is a long-standing trend in the food and beverage industry. Increasing consumer awareness of environmental issues, initiatives aimed at preventing food waste and promoting regenerative agriculture will be the top trends in sustainability. Products that are made from upcycled ingredients and ingredients made from food processing by-products could provide a key breakthrough in gaining consumer adoption of upcycled products. Ingredients like spent grains, eggshells, fruit pulps, peels, and powders are. Consumers are continuing to demand more information about the manufacture, cultivation, and sourcing of their food and the ingredients within. Vegetarian and Flexitarian diets, which reduce meat consumption, are also expected to continue to grow. In addition, this year we will see the rise of “carneficionados.” Or consumers that are willing to spend a premium on high-quality meat products (ex. 100% grass-fed, organic).
In 2024, the food industry is witnessing shifting consumer preferences and heightened awareness of health and sustainability. From personalized nutrition to globally inspired plant-based alternatives, manufacturers are innovating to meet the demand for nutritious and environmentally friendly options. Natural ingredient labels are gaining prominence, with consumers seeking transparency and cleaner label products featuring clean label ingredients like alternative sweeteners and ancient grains. Flavors are evolving to reflect diverse culinary influences, from global and fusion tastes to nostalgic favorites. Convenience remains top of mind for consumers, with single-serving options catering to on-the-go lifestyles. Meanwhile, sustainability initiatives are at the forefront, with a focus on preventing food waste, embracing regenerative agriculture, and catering to flexitarian diets. Overall, the 2024 trends underscore a holistic approach to food production and consumption, emphasizing health, sustainability, and flavor innovation. By strategically responding to these trends, manufacturers and processors can capitalize on opportunities for innovation and growth in this dynamic and evolving landscape. Embracing health and wellness, leveraging natural ingredients, exploring global flavors, prioritizing convenience, and embracing sustainability are key strategies for success in the years to come.