How consumer trends may change food processing

Instant gratification, authenticity, healthy and active older consumers, and even young children play a role in shaping food production trends.

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Most families in ancient Rome lived in apartments that lacked kitchens because city officials wanted to prevent fires. People relied on street vendors for their food. Much like today’s food and beverage manufacturers, these vendors needed to supply the foods their customers most wanted to eat.

So what do today’s consumers want from their foods? According to an international study of the top 10 consumer trends for 2017, people want more meal-ready choices, formulations that help them lead healthier, more active lives, and products with an authentic story to tell, because eating has always been as much an emotional experience as a physical one.

While many of these trends may have started in the U.S., Euromonitor International researchers say they have now spread to consumers worldwide. Changing global demographics and lifestyle expectations, driven by aging populations, rising wealth and smaller families where both parents work, will continue to influence what the world’s food and beverage processors make and how they promote their products.

A new age in aging

Among the key consumer trends that researchers believe will affect food and beverage processors is the emerging market to serve aging 50+ Baby Boomers who are healthier, wealthier and more active than in previous generations. Personalized food services, such as online ordering and specialized meal kits, will be in demand to simplify busy lives, meet dietary preferences or help consumers deal with health conditions. This will be especially important for serving those who prioritize, or actually gain prestige from, wellness.

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