As we enter 2024, the food industry is on the brink of a silent revolution, witnessing bold moves from startups, restaurants, and companies. Let’s dive into some anticipated food trends for 2024 that might shape the food industry this year!
1. Newstalgia: A Nostalgic Comeback
Get ready for a blast from the past as “newstalgia” takes over in 2024. Nostalgic trends are making a comeback, appealing to all generations. From chicken pot pies to Caesar salads, the classics are back in style. The resurgence of non-alcoholic cocktails like Shirley Temples and retro desserts like baked Alaska is elevating the dining experience. Patty melts and revamped sandwiches are making a low-level comeback, offering versatility in flavors. Brands are capitalizing on this trend, relaunching long-discontinued items and giving frozen dishes a global twist. With Gen Z gaining purchasing power, there’s a unique opportunity to appeal to younger generations while satisfying the nostalgia cravings of Millennials, Boomers, and Gen X’ers.
What’s your favorite nostalgic treat that you’d love to see make a comeback? Share it in the comments below, and let’s reminisce together about the good old days!
2. New European: The Evolution of European Cuisines
In 2024, the spotlight shifts to the evolution of European cuisines in the U.S. Innovative chefs are bringing fresh ideas, next-gen ingredients, and unfamiliar dishes to the table. Italian cuisine explores lesser-known regional dishes and embraces gluten-free and plant-based alternatives. Greek cuisine goes beyond the usual suspects, incorporating regional dishes like mpougatsa and adding theatrics like plate-smashing. French cuisine gets a modern twist with casual spaces, global flavors, and plant-based options. The New European era is less formal, more diverse, and showcases how European cuisine has influenced others. With tourism booming, it’s time to dive into the delicious world of the New European era.
3. Upcycled Certified: A Game-Changer for Sustainability
The Upcycled Certified® Program is a game-changer in 2024, focusing on reducing food waste and fighting the climate crisis. Every Upcycled Certified® product prevents food waste by using surplus food or by-products. The on-package mark, developed by the Upcycled Food Association, ensures legitimacy in supply chains and a positive environmental impact. With 92 certified companies, 317 products, and 164 ingredients, this certification is not just another marketing ploy. It’s a real commitment to sustainability. Join the movement by filling out the Upcycled Certified® Form, and contribute to a more eco-friendly food industry.
4. Ghost Kitchens: Embracing the Digital Revolution
The latest buzz in the restaurant industry is all about ghost kitchens in 2024. Also known as dark kitchens or delivery-only kitchens, they cater to the rising demand for delivery. With more Americans ordering delivery or pickup, traditional brick-and-mortar restaurants face challenges. Ghost kitchens emerge as digital superheroes, operating virtually to optimize dishes for third-party food delivery. They provide the benefits of prime real estate at a fraction of the cost, allowing chefs to focus on cooking while handling fulfillment and logistics. As the online delivery market is projected to hit $500 billion to $1 trillion by 2030, ghost kitchens become the secret ingredient for success.
Check out my latest video where I reveal the secrets behind the operations of ghost kitchens. You’ll be surprised by the unexpected operators!
If you are interested in learning about more food trends, take a look at Top 6 Food Trends to Expect in 2024 | Food Forecast.
If you are interested in more food industry news and food marketing, I suggest you check out the Food News page!
