The food industry is constantly evolving, and the latest trends are taking us back to our roots. At the Summer Fancy Food Show, a trade show hosted by the Specialty Food Association, the spotlight was on fish as the hottest protein, honey as the flavor du jour, and game meat as an upgrade to charcuterie boards. These trends suggest a return to the diet of cavemen, emphasizing natural, wholesome ingredients that have sustained humanity for centuries.
Honey has been a staple in human diets for thousands of years, but it is now emerging as a star ingredient in a variety of foods and drinks. At the Summer Fancy Food Show, honey took center stage with companies like Green Bee showcasing honey soda and Owl Creek Organics & Natural Flavors introducing honey spreads in delicious flavors like caffe mocha and lemon poppyseed. The use of honey in different culinary applications highlights its health benefits and versatility as a sweetener.
Tinned fish, once a niche product found mainly in Spanish and Portuguese booths, is now making a splash across the show floor. Exhibitors at the Summer Fancy Food Show displayed a wide range of tinned fish products with innovative flavors, seafood varieties, and trendy packaging. Companies like Wildfish Cannery and Krill Arctic Foods are catering to the growing demand for convenient, protein-rich snacks by offering gourmet tinned fish options that appeal to modern consumers.
The rise of charcuterie boards on social media has inspired food companies to innovate and elevate the classic meat and cheese platter. At the Summer Fancy Food Show, exhibitors showcased a variety of new salami flavors, such as black truffle and mezcal with salted lime from Tempesta Artisan Salumi and Salt & Twine. Some companies are even experimenting with alternative meats like elk, venison, and bison to create unique and flavorful charcuterie options that go beyond traditional pork.
No cocktail or glass of wine is complete without a delicious snack to accompany it. Companies like Wine Chips and The Drinks Bakery are targeting consumers who appreciate the art of food and drink pairings. The Drinks Bakery offers “drinks biscuits” in flavors like parmesan, toasted pine nuts, and basil that complement a wide range of alcoholic beverages. Similarly, Wine Chips provides thick-cut potato chips designed to be enjoyed with specific types of wine, such as their Sel Gris flavor meant to be paired with sparkling wine.
The food trends of 2021 reflect a return to simplicity, quality, and innovation in the culinary world. From the resurgence of ancient ingredients like honey to the modern twists on traditional foods like tinned fish and charcuterie, the industry is constantly evolving to meet the changing tastes and preferences of consumers. As we look ahead to the future of food, one thing is certain – the possibilities are endless when it comes to creating delicious, trend-setting dishes and beverages.
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