Spotting trends in food is essential to understanding what food consumers are doing now and more importantly may be doing in the future. And it appears that this year’s trends – like “cocooning” – may stick around a little longer, according to research from ‘thefoodpeople’. 2009 has been a tough year, although food has held up well compared to other sectors. Looking forward to 2010 thefoodpeople expect to see all of the main macro factors including economic,... ...Read more »

American-based market researchers have shone light on some of the emerging trends that surfaced in the world’s largest consuming country, highlighting possible opportunities for Australian food industry players in the years ahead. According to the Culinary Trend Mapping Report, a bi-monthly journal from Packaged Facts and the Center for Culinary Development (CCD), overall themes for the year included nostalgia, healthful eating, comfort food, and distinctive regional or international flavours... ...Read more »

There is a new reality when it comes to grocery shopping – more consumers want simple, cost-efficient foods they can prepare at home and that don’t compromise on quality. The shift remains in force at a time when recessionary fears are fading, according to Phil Lempert – the ‘Supermarket Guru’, who works closely with American food manufacturers like ConAgra Foods and retailers to analyze trends in the industry. Lately, he has seen many brands go back to their roots... ...Read more »

The winners of the I Love Food Awards for 2009 have been announced, with sushi bar Zushi in Sydney’s Darlinghurst claiming the top honour as Australian’s favourite eatery. Over 100,000 votes were tallied in 16 categories by the Lifestyle Food Channel, with the awards offering an insight into current food trends. “From the results we can see that Mexican is hot,” GM of the awards, Nicole Sheffield, advised. “It was the most hotly contested category this year proving incredibly... ...Read more »

A new report has shone the light on the food trends driving industry growth in the coming decade, with “better-for-you” and convenience trends set to gather pace. In its new report, A Look into The Future of Eating, The NPD Group, an American-based market research company, forecasts that “better for you” foods, such as organic and low-calorie foods and beverages, will be among the fastest growing food trends over the next decade. Restaurant meals eaten at home, savoury snacks... ...Read more »

Aussies are endeavouring to teach the Brits a thing or two about food with the launch of an Austrade food trends report in the UK this month. Austrade’s Senior Trade Commissioner for the UK, Kylie Hargreaves, said the Austrends 2009 Report was developed to create some buzz in the UK Market around the interesting and unique food trends coming out of Australia, during a difficult time for new product development and marketing. “Retailers here in the UK are a little bit behind some of the... ...Read more »