HOW TO
HOW TO: FOOD TRENDS
FEATURING FOOD ON YOUR MENU Trending and in-demand flavors and food.
W Photo: Shutterstock/ NatashaPhoto.
hat’s on your menu? The selections may look different in the wake of COVID-19, as bars and restaurants work to revamp and simplify menus due to increased food safety protocols and reduced seating capacity. Still, customers want choices that reflect changing trends and sensibilities. Flavor, Texture, and Color “Bar owners can and should consider food trends when building out their food and drink menus each year,” says Lisa Smith, senior marketing communications manager at Truly Good Foods. “A lot of consumer flavor trends can actually start in beverage before moving on to food.” As exposure to international foods and exotic fruits increases, customers are excited to explore new tastes. Smith says, “When it comes to current trends, bar owners should think big flavor.
barbizmag.com
BY EMILY ECKART Consumers are looking for unique fruit flavors like prickly pear and yuzu and hybrid flavors are an even bigger trend this year. Think calamansi, a hybrid of kumquat and mandarin orange. Consumers are more adventurous than ever and willing to try new flavors.” Bar owners can explore this trend in both snacks and drinks. Another trend that can work for both food and beverages, Smith says, is sweet heat. “As sugar continues to be looked upon as a negative, less sweet flavors with some added heat are keeping eaters and drinkers interested,” she says. People like to try new things, and Smith expects to see more demand for surprising textures in 2020. “70% of consumers said texture gives food a more interesting experience. Although it’s a key element of how we experience food, it doesn’t get as much attention as some of our other senses. Playing up texture can make existing products more exciting and new products can
highlight textures for a fun new experience. Bar owners could not only use textures in their food menu, but also for drinks. Consider interesting textures to rim your cocktails or as interesting garnishes to your drinks.” Engage all of your customers’ senses by paying attention to color as well. Smith says, “For color trends this year, the palette is moving from warm to cool, with blues and greens spotlighted in dishes and packaged snacks. Colorful
Pro Tip Many consumer flavor trends actually start in beverage before moving on to food. Consider food and drinks together to create a menu that satisfies and delights your customers. April/May 2020
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