2021 food trends point to a new kind of consumer consciousness when it comes to health and wellness with a redefinition of 'personal health'

摘要

With the onset of the global health pandemic, 2020 marked a step-change across the globe. Prolonged lockdowns and social distancing measures dramatically changed the lives of consumers as well as their everyday habits, and this has been especially visible in food and beverage choices. A focus on personal health became not just a priority but a responsibility, and expanded to cover both physical and emotional wellbeing. Consumers are now seeking out products tailored to their specific needs and not just from a nutritional perspective; consumers seek indulgence and escapism from food too. The pandemic also fast-tracked food safety, making the matter front of mind with concerns over hygiene and production. At the same time, the growth of plant-based food rocketed, and transparency became even more important to consumers. They want to know not just what's in their food but what benefits the ingredients offer, where ingredients are sourced, and how they are grown and produced.