Top 10 Food Trends for 2021

The ongoing pandemic has forced many people around the world to reassess their decisions surrounding eating and exercise. With people being forced to stay home, they have had to undergo drastic changes to their lifestyles, including cooking at home.

Having to reduce their trips outdoors, including to the grocery stores or supermarkets, has also caused people to rethink their shopping habits and choose more shelf-stable foods that last longer.

With more people being concerned about their health it appears that superfoods will continue their domination, with a growing focus on foods that can improve the body's natural immunity.

At the same time, there is an increased demand for more organic, sustainable food as people are more conscious and seeking to consume products that have minimal impact on the planet.

Here are our predictions for what we can look forward to in the year ahead:

1. Coffee. We can look forward to more coffee all the time. Experts are predicting an increase in coffee-flavoured energy bars, coffee yogurt and coffee granola products. Look for even more ways to get a jolt of caffeine throughout the day.

2. Chickpeas. In recent years, we've seen chickpeas utilised in vegan food products. Next year, look for chickpeas to rise to prominence among other food items such as tofu, flour and cereals.

3. Dried fruit. Fruits are packed with vitamins, minerals, dietary fibre and antioxidants. Their health benefits are as versatile as their culinary applications, they can be enjoyed as part of breakfast, as a dessert, on a salad, or in a smoothie. Get in on this trend with our range of Springdale Cottage Pitted Prunes, Jumbo Golden Raisins, Dried Apricots, Dried Cranberries and Dried Figs by clicking here.

4. Fresh citrus fruit. Citrus fruits like oranges and grapefruits became immensely popular amid the pandemic due to their vitamin C content. These nutrient-dense fruits are also rich in fibre, potassium, and folic acid. They can be added to baked goods and desserts and enjoyed in juice form.

5. Rooibos tea. Also known as bush tea or redbush tea, a type of herbal tea originated from Southern Africa. Although it may sound new to many of us it has been a long-time favorite for tea lovers, but has enjoyed a resurgence due to the pandemic thanks to its high antioxidant and tannin content. It also has a range of culinary applications from baking, cooking, and desserts to name a few.

6. Shelf-stable grains. Grains such as oats, quinoa and buckwheat are set to take over the kitchen alongside favorites like rice and pasta. Grains are a great source of Carbs, soluble fibre and antioxidants. They are good for controlling blood sugar levels and can help you feel full longer, helping you lose weight. Check out the trend yourself, with Springdale Cottage's Tricolour Organic Quinoa here.

7. New cooking oils. At-home chefs are branching out with oils that add their own unique flavour and properties. Walnut and pumpkin seed oils lend a delicious nutty flavour, while sunflower seed oil is hitting the shelves with a bunch of new products and is versatile enough to use at high temps or in salad dressing.

8. Eggs. Eggs are nutrient-dense with high-quality protein, choline, iron, B-vitamins, and vitamin A to name a few. Eggs are very versatile and can be added to baked, cooked, grilled, savoury, spicy, and/or sweet dishes.

9. Raw or dark chocolate. There is an increased desire to consume food high in antioxidants and vitamins, and raw chocolate has a close to perfect nutritional profile with its level of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.

10. Healthy snacks. While working from home, people have been snacking more often and are seeking healthier options. Snacks like nuts and seeds, dried veggie chips and fruits will be topping the chart. Dates will still be among the most sought after in the list due to its longer shelf-life and benefits. They are also versatile enough to be included in a variety of recipes. Now for this one, All Kurma has got you covered almost entirely.

Moving forward

It is time to take back control of our health and consider new food options that can boost our body's natural immunity. Hopefully, some of our suggestions have given you ideas on what to choose for your diet.

Try to mix this list of trending foods for 2021 into your daily meals, snacks, and smoothies. Your body will be glad you did.

And the key is to stay healthy and active indoors or outdoors for a healthier and happier you, the most important thing is to ensure you always eat healthy! Happy 2021.

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