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2021 food trends to watch

Food trends are in constant fluctuation as quarantined foodies discover new flavors via the internet and social media. Here's some insight to help keep up with the developing food trends of 2021.

Image courtesy of iStock.

March 1, 2021 by Richard Traylor — Writer, WebstaurantStore

(Editor's note: An earlier version of this article ran on Food Truck Operator, a Vending Times sister publication.)

The foodservice trends of 2021 will inevitably be shaped by the coronavirus pandemic. Menus in the coming year will reflect the shifting taste bud preferences of people who have spent most of the previous year in lockdown, relying on what they can make themselves or can order for delivery. Foodservice operators can potentially recover some of the losses of 2020 by taking advantage of food trends that may shape 2021.

The top food trends of 2021 can be split into two main categories: quarantine cooking trends that shaped the way foodies eat at home, and menu food trends, which dictate what consumers are looking for on a menu when visit foodservice establishments, including workplace cafeterias.

The dining industry took a hit in 2020 with the major shutdowns caused by the coronavirus. As foodservice operators redesign menus for reopenings in 2021, consider some of these culinary trends:

International flavors

You can expect 2021 to usher in more international flavors. From Caribbean-inspired restaurants to sushi burrito food trucks, quarantined taste buds are looking for unique global flavors that they aren't used to like Moroccan tagine or a twist on tuna tacos. Lean into this trend in the new year by adopting flavors from around the world with inspired or fusion dishes, but be sure to give recognition to the countries where the flavors originate from.

Meat is no longer front and center on every dinner table. More foodies are adopting flexitarian diets and practicing "Meatless Mondays." Although this diet trend consists of vegetarian practices, it doesn't require a full rejection of meat or animal byproduct. Flexitarian diets encourage more natural and less processed food for either health purposes or to reduce one's carbon footprint. Diversify your menu in 2021 with more natural, vegetable- and fruit-based options to accommodate flexitarian diets among your customers.

It's no surprise 2020 increased the need for stress management and self-care practices with strain caused by the global pandemic. Consumers are looking for menu items that provide mental health benefits in their nutritional value. You can create a section of your menu with ingredients like salmon, prawns, dark leafy greens, nuts, berries and vegetables that help boost antioxidants and fatty acids to reduce stress. Add a note next to each menu item to indicate how it reduces stress to help your customers choose what to eat.

Burger alternatives

Burger alternatives took center stage in 2020 with the increase in popularity of the Beyond Burger and Impossible meats. We expect to see this trend continue with more meat alternatives and plant-based options on menus from fast food locations to fine dining establishments. This trend will lead to meals made with plant-based butter and creams, vegan cheese options, chicken and sausage meat alternatives, and more non-dairy milk selections. Take your menu to the next level by adding more options beyond Impossible burgers and almond milk creamers.

Whether it's the quarantine or curiosity, foodies are turning their attention to menu items that feature exotic fruits that they can't easily find in local supermarkets. Jackfruit has caught global attention and can be made into BBQ and jerky. Other exotic fruits making it onto food and drink menus include dragonfruit, horned melon, rambutan, longan, mamey sapote and goji berries. Incorporate fresh flavors into your signature desserts and beverages to turn heads in the coming year.

Chickpeas are causing a stir in the food industry and will become a staple ingredient in the upcoming year. Chickpeas are best known as the main ingredient in hummus and falafel, but in 2021 you can expect chickpeas to become a more popular ingredient on food labels and menus across the nation. Be prepared for chickpea flour as a gluten-free alternative in pasta, tortillas, cereal and baked goods. You can also expect to find chickpea aquafaba used in dairy-free desserts outside of vegan establishments.

In all of these emerging food trends, there are a few general takeaways that you should keep in mind when updating your menu.

Easy-to-make and flavorful

With people going out less due to mitigation efforts, they are seeking simple and comforting meals with tons of flavor. To make the most of this trend, put together a meal kit for dishes customers can make at home or recipe cards with delivered meals so your customers can replicate the meal. To pack a punch with your flavors, provide patrons with specialty sauces that they can purchase in bottles to use in their own cooking. Lean into the idea of comfort foods to open 2021, with a menu featuring breakfast foods and artisan breads.

Food trends are in constant fluctuation as quarantined foodies discover new flavors via the internet and social media. Craft your foodservice menu in the coming year to peak your customers' interests and keep up with the developing food trends of 2021.

Foodservice

About Richard Traylor

Richard Traylor graduated from Temple University in the winter of 2014 with a degree in Strategic Communications. After graduating, he taught English in South Korea for two years, during which he was fortunate enough to travel and see the world. In October 2016, he returned home and started to work in SEO Content at Webstaurant Store. This blog previously ran on Webstaurant Store.

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