8 global trends that will guide nutrition in 2023 –

One new research from ADM (Archer Daniels Midland)a global leader in human and animal nutrition, released the global consumer trends that should guide the food market in the coming years.

With themes related to health, well-being, sustainability and food safety, the eight trends will motivate innovation in niche products and services in the new year. In addition, they will influence consumers’ choices, demands and expectations regarding brands.

According to Brad Schwan, vice president of marketing for the company, individuals have been concerned about what they are consuming, analyzing whether food is beneficial not only for their own body and mind but also for the global community and the planet.

For this reason, in order to be successful in the coming years, organizations in the food, beverage and nutrition sectors will have to evolve in line with these new demands from today’s consumers.

1. EXPANDED PROTEIN OPTIONS

The flexitarian diet proposes to reduce the consumption of any food of animal origin | (mali maeder/Pexels)

Do you know the flexitarian diet? According to ADM, 52% of global consumers are fans of this type of food. Within that percentage, nearly two-thirds are prioritizing consumption of plant-based foods, resulting in increased demand for expanded protein options.

“It’s a flexible diet in which you follow a vegetarian diet most of the time, but occasionally eat some kind of food of animal origin. It is a food pattern that is increasingly popular for those who want to reduce meat consumption, but without depriving themselves of eating when they feel like it”, he explains. Livia Queirósnutritionist at ADM.

In some cases, the flexitarian diet can be a good alternative for those who want to change their lifestyle gradually until they reach vegetarianism or veganism.

“Taking into account that in this type of diet there is an increase in the consumption of plant foods, such as fruits, grains and more natural foods, it is expected that the flexitarian diet can bring health benefits, for example, the prevention of cardiovascular diseases, diabetes and several types of cancer”, highlights the nutritionist.

2. BALANCED WELL-BEING

A balanced diet can help improve sleep quality and mood | (pressphoto/Freepik/Reproduction)

As well as physical health, mental, emotional and even spiritual aspects have been seen with great importance by consumers, who are making their choices, including food, intentionally, consciously and with the aim of achieving their complete well-being. .

Worldwide, 79% of them believe that their mental health has an impact on their overall health. This year’s Prebiotics Report, developed by FMCG Gurus, indicates that mental wellbeing has become a top concern for 48% of consumers, after immune, digestive and heart function, for the coming year.

“Foods are capable of impacting our health and our mood, which is totally linked to the concept of holistic health, which is when we involve the mental, physical and emotional part in the same concept”, reports Livia.

3. CUSTOMIZATION

Make food choices according to what your body needs! | (Gustavo Fring/Pexels)

Personalization is gaining strength in the world of health and food, as what works for one person may not work for another. Now consumers are denying “one size fits all” and looking for what is “best for me”.

According to the 2021 Personalized Nutrition Report, released by the English FMCG Gurus, 63% of global consumers report being interested in personalized food and beverage products to meet their individual nutritional needs.

55% of consumers report that they are willing to spend more on functional foods that can actually provide health benefits.

These customized solutions also align with each individual’s lifestyle, considering each individual’s taste and culture.

4. TRUST AND TRACEABILITY

Where does food come from and how is it produced? (Zen Chung/Pexels)

Consumers around the world want to understand how the food they consume is produced, if it has humane conditions and what ingredients are included.

Using data from this year’s Route to Sustainability Report, by FMCG Gurus, it is possible to note that there has been progress in relation to consumer confidence, since 42% of them have come to believe more in the environmental statements made by brands in the last two years.

In addition to concerns about food safety, this need for transparency stems from the desire to connect with food and the communities that produce it.

For this reason, honest, authentic companies that provide technologies that enable the traceability of products and ingredients to their origins, have gained the support of individuals.

“Knowing the origin of a food, how it is processed and what it is made of is important, mainly, so that consumers can make more conscious choices and establish healthier eating habits”, warns the ADM nutritionist.

5. ECOLOGICALLY CORRECT PRODUCTION

Environmental responsibility | (Akil Mazumder/Pexels)

The adoption of a more ecological lifestyle has influenced consumers’ food choices, and, according to the 2022 Route to Sustainability Report, 49% of them claim to have made changes to their diet because of concerns about the environment.

They are also demanding a higher standard of environmentally conscious practices from the companies they buy from. Reducing food waste is another goal for consumers, who expect the same from the brands they support. In addition, they want proof of environmental reconstruction and restoration.

“Food waste is a very big obstacle to ensuring food security. It can cause environmental damage, as it generates, for example, the greenhouse effect. So, uneaten food is a waste of energy and resources, which could be used in a better way”, says Livia Queirós.

6. FAIR TREATMENT OF WORKERS

– (Cláudio Paulino/Disclosure)

Using their voices and purchasing power, consumers are demanding that companies practice fair and humane treatment not only for the animals their products come from but also for the people involved in all aspects of production.

Nearly 30% of global consumers have actively boycotted a product or brand because of its ethical credentials, and 40% look for brands that ensure farmers are treated ethically.

Securing the livelihoods of workers and farmers, employing methods of inclusion and diversity throughout the organization, and keeping products affordable and accessible to the end user are important considerations for modern consumers when making purchasing decisions.

7. MODERN PET BREEDING

Pets are part of many individuals’ lives | (Dominika Roseclay/Pexels)

Often considered part of the family, pets are not left out when it comes to nutrition, as they also have dietary and emotional needs.

In light of this, many pet owners want their pet’s food to be made with the same ingredients as their own.

The 2022 Pet Care Health Report by FMCG Gurus states that over 60% of global dog and cat owners say branded health ingredients for their pets are key.

In this context, it is clear that a holistic approach is being consolidated in the care of pets, prioritizing, together, mental well-being, physical health, exercise and diet.

8. EXPERIMENTAL EAT

Allow yourself to know new flavors! | (Andrea Piacquadio/Pexels)

Trying new things and going on an adventure with food has been a trend among consumers. 74% reveal a desire to experience new flavors from around the world and 63% report that they like to innovate when cooking, according to the 2021 Flavors, Colors and Textures Report by FMCG Gurus.

While looking for new flavors, individuals also intend to get involved with fun and playful brands that can make the experience even more interesting.

“If an individual has a diet based on the same foods, it may be that he is not ingesting the nutrients necessary for the health of the organism. However, in addition to this nutritional issue, when trying new foods, there is also an issue related to the feelings a person has when ingesting something new. The individual may end up discovering a new flavor or a new texture that brings pleasure and promotes emotions that are advantageous for mental health”, says nutritionist Livia Queirós.