Today we welcome a collaborative post from a talented contributor. Enjoy, C.
2020 was most definitely a year to remember, although perhaps not always for the best reasons. However, the facts of the matter remain, the pandemic has impacted the way most people consume food. Indeed, there have been several changes in how we access food from restaurants and the additional time we have in our own homes, which has had a significant effect. Luckily, bloggers, restaurateurs, and anyone else passionate about food can read about what to expect from food trends in 2021 below.
Plant-Based Foods
You have probably got the message already, thanks to Veganuary, but the food industry is most definitely embracing the trend for plant-based foods. Indeed, supermarkets and restaurants alike are set to up their plant-based food game in 2021, with some notable mentions including smoked sausages made from pea protein and burgers made from veggie protein but that are still pink inside and brown on the outside.
In fact, it can seem as if most of the plant-based innovations are designed around replacing meat. However, this is not the case, and plant-based spins on traditional comfort meals like mac and cheese, and curries are also set to be all the rage, both at home and when circumstances allow in restaurants.
Pickling/Fermenting
Another important trend for 2021 is pickling and fermenting. The good news is that fermented food like sauerkraut, and kimchi are not only delicious additions to a hotdog or sandwich, but they are good for us as well! Yay!
When it comes to pickles in 2021, think less traditional onions and chutneys and more preservation of garden produce. That means pickled cucumbers, carrots, and even radishes, which can add a real jolt of interest to a salad.
Delivery Services
There is no getting away from it; delivery services within the food industry are set to continue to be huge in 2021. After all, with folks not being able to go out to eat because of the pandemic, for many of us having some restaurant-quality food is the last bastion of a normal weekend!
However, it is worth noting that restaurant cooked foods are not the only things that a delivery service can bring. Indeed, wine, baking kits, desserts, and meal kits are all fantastic products for this model too. Something that restaurants would do well to bear in mind and that food bloggers will delight over, no doubt.
Eco-Conscious Packaging
Last of all, a major issue that everyone in the food industry needs to be aware of in 2021 is the trend towards more eco-conscious packaging. This means whether you are having your food delivered, or buying it from a store, you can say goodbye to all those less-than-sustainable plastic pots.
Instead, what you can expect from now on, are things like cardboard boxes with removable liners so they can be more easily recycled. Sugarcane containers are also set to be popular, while high-end customers may even expect glass containers that can be returned for sterilization and reuse.
