What food trends will be big in 2023?
The Next Big Thing in Food: Top Trends to Watch Out for in 2023
Two in three UK adults would struggle to give up eating out – even during a cost-of-living crisis. What's more, 70 per cent say eating and drinking out is the treat they most look forward to.
In short, we love our food, and the trends shaping our buying, eating, and drinking habits are constantly evolving. It's exciting to see what new food and drink concepts will emerge in 2023. Here are some of our top predictions to watch out for.
Sustainability and Ethical Consumption
The trend towards sustainable and ethical consumption will likely continue and grow in the coming years. Consumers are becoming increasingly aware of the environmental impact of their food choices and are seeking out products that are locally sourced, organic, and use sustainable packaging. In response, food businesses are starting to shift towards sustainable practices, with more restaurants and food manufacturers embracing things like composting, recycling, and reducing food waste.
Healthy Eating
Healthy eating has been a popular trend for several years, and it shows no signs of slowing in 2023. Consumers are becoming more health-conscious and are looking for healthier options when dining out or purchasing food products. Expect to see more plant-based options on menus, as well as gluten-free, low- carb, and low-calorie options.
Restaurants and food manufacturers will also be putting more emphasis on using wholesome, natural ingredients and reducing the use of artificial additives.
Innovative Plant-Based Options
The plant-based trend is here to stay, and in 2023, we can expect to see more innovative plant-based options hitting the market. From vegan seafood to plant-based meat and dairy alternatives, there will be no shortage of plant-based options for consumers to choose from. Keep an eye out for more plant-based options in fast-food chains and supermarkets as the demand for these products skyrockets.
Fusion Cuisine
Fusion cuisine, which combines elements from different culinary traditions, is expected to be a big trend in 2023. Consumers are experimenting with new and exciting flavour combinations as they become more adventurous with their food choices. We will likely see more fusion cuisine on restaurant menus and in ready-made meals, with creative combinations of ingredients from different parts of the world.
Non-Alcoholic Drinks
With a growing interest in health and wellness, non-alcoholic spirits and cocktails will make a name for themselves in 2023. These drinks offer a sophisticated alternative to traditional alcoholic beverages. Theyare ideal for consumers looking for an alcohol-free drink that still delivers on flavour and complexity. More bars, pubs, and restaurants will offer creative non-alcoholic cocktails, as well as a wider variety of non- alcoholic spirits and mixers.
Food Waste Reduction
Food waste reduction will be a key trend in 2023 as businesses aim to reduce their environmental impact. This will involve reducing food waste and finding innovative ways to use leftover produce. Restaurants may start using food scraps to create new dishes, while food manufacturers will look for ways to turn food waste into ingredients for new products — two waste reduction strategies that cut costs and contribute to a more sustainable future.
Cost-Conscious Decisions
There's no escaping it. With inflation and supply chain disruptions affecting food prices, consumers will likely be more mindful of their spending. Restaurants and food brands that offer affordable options without sacrificing quality are likely to gain popularity. This trend may also drive an increase in home cooking and meal preparation as consumers seek to save money.
Looking Ahead
The food trends for 2023 reflect a growing emphasis on sustainability, health, and innovation. From plant- based options to non-alcoholic drinks, there will be no shortage of exciting food and drink concepts to explore in the coming year.
As businesses adapt to these trends, we expect to see more eco-friendly practices, healthier options, and exciting new flavour combinations. Whether you're a food lover, a restaurant owner, or a food manufacturer, it's an exciting time to be a part of the food industry in the UK.