Whole Foods Markets recently revealed their top food trends for 2018. The forecast, across the board, is looking positively vegan.
The compiled trends were organized by seasoned trend-spotters based on more than 100 years of combined experience in product sourcing and studying consumer preferences. Simply put, these trends weren’t guesswork nor were they based on any perceived hype.
Floral flavors topped the list. Products with petals and whole flowers are becoming more common and popular these days, as they add a distinctive aroma and flavor. If you’re interested in giving it a try, check out Whole Foods Market Lime Mint Elderflower Italian Sparkling Mineral Water and Jacobs Farm Organic Edible Flowers.
The list includes functional mushrooms (meaning they can be used in many ways), super powders, Middle Eastern food (with an emphasis on chickpeas, eggplant, pistachios, and dried fruit), increasing realistic meat and dairy substitutes (like Beyond Meat products, for example), puffed and popped snacks, bubbly drinks, and tacos for all times of the day. In addition, the company says there is growing focus on labeling transparency — that products are clear about whether they’re vegan, organic, non-GMO, etc. They also say there is increased interest in root-to-stem versus nose-to-tail, which means people are opting for plants and vegetables more often and using the entire thing.
Products that fall under all of these trends can be bought at Whole Foods. Only time will tell how these influences affect the global foodscape.