By Formula Foods Australia | 12 December 2023
The culinary landscape is ever-evolving, and 2024 promises an exciting journey into the realm of exciting tastes and innovative gastronomic experiences. From bold spices to global inspirations, sustainability to the ever-expanding coffee culture, this year's trends are set to redefine the way we savor our favorite dishes. Let's dive into the delectable world of food and beverage trends that will captivate our taste buds in 2024.
Prepare for a sensory adventure as bold spices take center stage. The culinary scene is witnessing a surge in demand for tantalising heat and robust flavors. According to Tag Worldwide (USA) Inc., spicy foods are on the rise, offering a thrilling dining experience that awakens taste buds and triggers endorphin rushes. Examples of these emerging spices include the fiery Carolina Reapers, Scorpion Peppers, Guajillo, and Hungarian Goathorn Peppers, each contributing to a diverse and exciting flavor palette.
Culinary exploration takes a front seat this year with the trend of regional delights and global accents. Consumers are eager to embark on a flavor-packed journey inspired by specific regions and dishes. This trend mirrors the cultural fascination with diverse tastes worldwide. Tag Worldwide highlights the fusion of Mediterranean, Eastern European, and Middle Eastern influences creating a sensational medley of flavors. Nestle professional meanwhile lists Japanese and Mexican, French and Filipino and Cajun and Vietnamese as some matchups showing up in all industry segments. This cultural trend extends beyond traditional boundaries, with consumers open to trying new global cuisines, reflecting the evolution from the 2021 trend - 'Traveling Through My Food.'
Flavour fusion. Japanese and Mexican are a matchup among others showing up in all industry segments. Credit: thefoodxp.com
Sustainability and plant-based foods continue to shape the culinary landscape, with veganism and vegetarianism taking center stage. According to Innova Market Insights, floral flavors such as chamomile, honeysuckle, and rose are gaining popularity, aligning seamlessly with wellness and sustainability trends. Consumers are not only seeking healthier alternatives but are also recognising the environmental benefits of plant-based choices. The 2023 Global Consumer Trends report by ADM reveals that over half (52%) of global consumers identify as flexitarians, aiming to include more plant-based options in their diet.
Enter the "ice age" of coffee as 2024 sees a surge in specialty cold brews and iced concoctions. Nestle Professional reports that up to 75% of beverage sales of coffee chains are iced drinks, a trend that shows no signs of slowing. Younger generations, particularly Gen Z, are turning to online platforms such as TikTok, with 49% of them learning about coffee trends and culture from digital sources. On the hot side, bolder blends, flat whites, macchiatos, white coffee, and cortados are making their move from the fringes to the mainstream, catering to diverse coffee preferences.
Indeed, some like it hot. Up to 75% of beverage sales of coffee chains are iced drinks.
In 2024, the food and beverage industry is a playground of flavors, blending tradition with innovation. From the fiery kick of bold spices to the global inspirations of regional delights, sustainability's green embrace to the evolving coffee culture, each trend offers a unique and delectable experience. As we embark on this gastronomic journey, Formula Foods Australia stands ready to provide flavor solutions that elevate culinary creations to new heights. Stay tuned and savor the tastes of 2024!
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