Five emerging trends that could redefine our food habits

People all over the world have made it a point to eat healthily and make wise lifestyle choices since the pandemic. Gone are the days when there were only a few food items available to satisfy one's hunger. People today want food options that allow them to experiment with flavours and new ingredients, try vibrant cultural dishes, and provide better health for both the body and the planet.

People's eating habits have changed as a result of the pandemic, and some unconventional food innovations have given rise to significant global trends. Isthara Parks, a pioneer in smart food courts, has identified the key food trends that will transform the way we eat in the coming years.

A global crisis and two consecutive lockdowns have forced a reconsideration of food options. Health and well-being have risen to the top of the priority list, and there has been a significant shift in how people eat and how it affects the environment. Veganism and plant-based diets have evolved from a food trend to a globally recognised lifestyle. As more people opt for plant-based meals, the food industry is gradually introducing new innovations and options in the segment for those who prefer clean, plant-based foods. Reducetarianism is causing people to eat less meat and replace it with vegan alternatives in order to live a healthier lifestyle. This is poised to become a long-term sustainable trend as more affordable, ready-to-cook plant-based meal options hit the market.

Meals that are ready to cook:

People are exhausted from returning home and preparing a full meal now that many workplaces are resuming work from home. There is a growing demand for ready-to-cook/eat meals due to rapid urbanisation, shifting millennial behavioural patterns, and shifting taste preferences. Because of the convenience they provide, ready-to-cook marinated meats, pre-measured ingredient meals, and even instant ramen are now fairly common in most kitchens. Furthermore, these pre-packaged meals are relatively healthy, require little effort, and are relatively cheap. The food industry is also getting in on the act, introducing new items tailored to the Indian palate, such as burgers and pizzas, as well as idlis and vadas. Ready-to-cook meals have been prepared.

Soups and stews

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As corporations return to full-time work from the office and colleges begin to reopen, people will miss the comfort of their homes, as well as the comfort of home-cooked meals. Many people will also be returning to work, resulting in an increase in demand and a desire for comfort, home-cooked food. They will seek solace in the form of comfort food to rekindle a sense of home while they are away from their families and homes. Since the pandemic, there has been an increase in demand for home-cooked meals and tiffin, as they tend to meet the need for comfort and warmth during these unprecedented times. People are also favouring home-cooked comfort foods.

It was snacked on.

Today, a large portion of the population prefers healthier snacks to sweet, fatty, and high-carbohydrate snacks. Almost every month, protein bars, oatmeal cookies, high protein muesli, gluten-free protein munchies, roasted protein sticks, and other similar items can be found in shopping carts. People have gradually come to realise that, as much as we enjoy snacking, it is also important to do so mindfully and sensibly. High-protein snacks are gaining popularity among millennials as a healthy alternative that can also be used as a meal replacement for busy millennial workers.

''Wake up' and 'bake'

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Baked goods are popular because they are tasty and convenient. As a result of the pandemic, people experimented with a wide range of recipes, with baking being the most popular. Many people are also experimenting and diversifying baked goods to make them a complete meal option. As food-blogging on Instagram and TikTok food trends have become popular, creators and even full-time corporate employees want to stand out by creating something unique. Baking has been a popular interest, hobby, and long-term trend, with recipes ranging from cakes, pastries, cookies, and brownies to frozen desserts, pies, tarts, puddings, and chocolate confections.

they are tasty and convenient. As a result of the pandemic, people experimented with a wide range of recipes, with baking being the most popular. Many people are also experimenting and diversifying baked goods to make them a complete meal option. As food-blogging on Instagram and TikTok food trends have become popular, creators and even full-time corporate employees want to stand out by creating something unique. Baking has been a popular interest, hobby, and long-term trend, with recipes ranging from cakes, pastries, cookies, and brownies to frozen desserts, pies, tarts, puddings, and chocolate confections.
Cafeteria food is expected to play an important role in retaining students and employees. These food trends will change the way people eat in the future, and some of them will become dining norms in the coming years.