2021 FOOD + BEVERAGE TREND —— Clarkston Consulting

CLARKSTON recently released the 2021 food and beverage trends report. Would you like to know which food industry trends are mentioned in the report? Go to the official website of SIAL China!

(Click for full report) 

TREND #1: Consumers are prioritizing clean labels more than ever 

Reading the label is becoming an essential part of the food buying experience. Consumers like to see that their products are ethically sourced and produced before adding them to their shopping cart. The words fresh, natural, 100% organic are just some examples of key phrases most evident in the clean food revolution. Consumers are more willing to pay more a premium for that are organic, pasture-raised, and cruelty-free.

TREND #2: belief-driven buyers lead the move towards sustainability

Sustainability will continue to be a differentiator for food and beverage products in 2021. Sustainable packaging, socially and environmentally conscious policies, sustainable certifications, and transparency into the supply chain will help brands win consumer trust, and ultimately their dollars.

TREND #3: eCommerce and DTC

With the outbreak of COVID-19, online shopping quickly accelerated inito the spotlight as quarantined shoppers took to the virtual aisles for their needs. The move to eCommerce and DTC, though accelerated by the pandemic, is also heavily aligned with a consumer-first mindset- a necessity in today ‘s landscape. Consumers are demanding more personalized service at an extraordinary level so business will need to dedicate significant resources to customer service and creating a seamless consumer experience. By 2021, eCommerce is expected to grow to nearly 14% of overall sales.

TREND #4: The plant-based trend will continue to bloom

the trend towards incorporating plan-based foods into the typical people diet continues to grow- even more so as we look to 2021. Costumers have become more aware and focused to personal and environmental health. Beyond the personal health benefits, consumers are opting for plant- based meat substitutes for seek to lessen their environmental impact. 35% of Generation Z-ers are planning to ditch meat by 2021. During the COVID-19, plant-based meat sales were up 148% and then 61% in the subsequent month.

TREND #5: Enjoy the comforts of home

The COVID-19 pandemic has forced many people to rethink their eating patterns and habits. Many who traditionally eta out began to opt for cooking at home, many via subscription meal services. Customers are seeking comfort and familiarity in the wake of the uncertainty and disruption that’s reigned supreme in2020.

TREND #6: Embracing the snack attack

Snacking is not a new trend but has seen an increase with the outbreak of COVID-19 that will only continue to rise. Many health/ nutrition snacks fell in demand during the pandemic while people craved more typical snack foods, although overall snack consumption boosted.