The trends shaping the food service landscape can be broken down into adventurous, artisanal and authentic, according to M&C Allegra’s Menu and Food Trends report.
Among the fledgling trends identified by the report are bottomless drinks, ceviche, modern British and premium new fast food.
Analysis of the market also shows several trends classified as emerging last year have now well and truly entered the mainstream, chief among them the craft beer and street food sectors.
The report categorises trends as established, emerging, hot and warm. These categories are shaped by the industry mega trends of healthier eating, indulgence, informality, premiumisation, provenance and value.
Hot and warm trends – including ‘Burgerisation’ e.g. kimchi burgers and ‘Man vs food’ challenges – may develop into emerging or established trends or peak and end up short-lived. Similarly, emerging trends may prove unsustainable.
M&C Allegra’s research shows an increasing percentage of consumers identifying themselves as ‘foodies’, with their interest in food driving the rapid growth of hot and emerging cuisines. In particular, awareness is increasing around regional Asian, Middle Eastern and South American cuisines.
The report also shows increasing interest in fusion food. It says that while there have been certain negative connotations in the past, there is growing recognition that combining two or more cuisines can create a fresh offering that adds a point of differentiation. Industry experts see the influence of fusion cooking increasing, though at a fairly modest pace. However, the report warms there is the risk of doing it all wrong however, resulting in ‘Confusion cooking’.
To purchase Menu and Food Trends report or for more information please contact Richard Hayman at richard.hayman@mcallegra-fs.com or call 020 7611 0415.
