With health and wellness now a priority more than ever before, consumers are on the hunt for products sporting ingredients that provide additional nutritional benefits. This is boosting the demand for natural, clean label and plant-based products, as the condition of the planet also comes sharply into focus.
Embassy Ingredients insights experts have researched the top trends that will influence the flavours for 2022:
Plant-based power
The demand for plant-based foods has taken the market by storm, and while the number of flexitarians is on a trajectory curve, there is also a huge number moving towards veganism.
Research shows the increasing demand for sustainable products is driving the growth, expected to only get bigger until the next decade. To keep ahead of the trend, producers will need to be highly aware of the back story of their products, taking into account critical components like animal welfare, carbon footprint and water usage, for example.
Clean label colours
It is often said that we eat with our eyes first – and without a doubt, treats that pop with colour tend to instantly appeal. But today, the increasingly conscious consumer is veering towards organic, natural and shorter ingredients lists.
When it comes to colour additives, synthetic ones no longer cut the mustard. Thankfully, Mother Nature herself provides the solution.
On the plus side, natural colours and flavours also come with added nutritional benefits, another plus in the consumer’s book.
The spice route
This does not rule out the need for something exotic or familiar and while there will still be a legacy of last year’s need for comfort and indulgence, 2022 will be spicy - both in terms of heat and a melange of spices.
Embassy believes the bakery sector will see a wider adoption of unusual combos such as Mango Habanero and Chilli Raspberry, along with ethic notes like Mexican Hot Chocolate and Speculoos (a Dutch favourite redolent with pepper, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, cardamom and nutmeg). Flavours like Nashville Mac & Cheese, Buffalo, BBQ and Olive-Pesto will bring a classic food truck twist to pies, cookies, pastries and even desserts.
We chat to Embassy’s president Martino Brambilla to see what’s in store for the new year.
