Hannah Cardozo lists the top nine food trends to check out in 2024.
2024 is the year of being BOLD. From peach fuzz to maximalist designs and bows, a sense of adventure is taking centre stage. Today’s consumers have evolved, seeking high quality and value for their money, particularly the discerning Generation Z. When it comes to food, this generation of sensible and skeptical cooks and diners yearns for experiences that are rewarding with a sense of adventure. Let’s take a look at some of the most delectable trends to look forward to…
Cafe Core
According to a Pinterest Predicts feature, Cafe Core is expected to become a prominent trend – starting in your kitchen. The era of bar carts is fading, making room for the rise of intricate home coffee bars. Imagine having your personal espresso machine, adorned with charming chalk art, accompanied by an array of adorable coffee-shop-inspired mugs, glasses and stirring spoons.
Snooze-Infused Elixirs
Thanks to the viral TikTok recipe for sleepy girl mocktails, trend forecasters observed an increased interest in maintaining proper sleep. Originally shared by TikToker Calee Shea in January 2023, the recipe reshared by Gracie Norton has now amassed over 1.5 million views.
The sleepy girl mocktail includes: ½ cup of pure tart cherry juice; 1 tablespoon of magnesium powder; and a splash of prebiotic soda or sparkling water.
Transparent Ingredients
The term ‘Clean Label’ is defined as a product with a straightforward, concise, and comprehensible list of ingredients. The attention paid by consumers to clean labeling is on the rise. According to food transparency research, a staggering 93% of customers believe manufacturers and brands must disclose the ingredients and production methods on their packaging. This includes providing a comprehensive description or list of all ingredients in a product, complete nutritional details, allergy information, and insights into how ingredients are sourced and produced.
Farm To Plate
The profound impact of climate change has sparked a growing interest in climate-conscious dining. In the past year, numerous restaurants and bars across the country have been actively working towards reducing their carbon footprint. From innovative rooftop gardens to advanced hydroponic setups, both professional chefs and home cooks are wholeheartedly embracing the concept of sourcing fresh produce locally.
Saatvic Food
As more people lean towards clean eating, saatvic food is garnering more attention. Many yoga practitioners are drawn to the saatvic diet due to its deep connection with Ayurveda, an ancient Indian medicinal system that dates back over 5,000 years. Post-pandemic, the popularity of saatvic food is gradually resurfacing. The saatvic diet emphasises the consumption of nourishing foods such as fresh fruits, vegetables and nuts which can contribute to various health advantages.
Vegan Meat
Veganism has firmly established itself as a lasting trend. The growing popularity of veganism and flexitarianism in India has had a significant impact on the soaring demand for plant-based meat products. In 2021, the Indian market for plant-based meat reached a valuation of USD 38.2 million, and it is expected to skyrocket to an impressive USD 836.2 million by 2028. Whether it’s cricket maestro Virat Kohli and his actor wife Anushka Sharma campaigning for Blue Tribe Foods, or Imagine Meats started by actress Genelia D’souza and her actor-producer husband Riteish Deshmukh, they have played a pivotal role in raising awareness about this movement.
A Taste Of Home
Indian cuisine continues to make waves in the culinary world as chefs serve up their traditional family recipes. In the past year, several Indian restaurants such as Tres Ind in Dubai, Gaa in Bangkok, and Semma in New York have garnered praise and even Michelin stars for their innovative take on traditional, regional cooking. More chefs are expected to delve into regional cuisine this year. This shift will see a rise in menus that celebrate Indian micro-cuisines, with chefs looking inward for inspiration rather than seeking it abroad.
Hidden Gems
In today’s well-connected era, it has become nearly impossible for anything to remain concealed. Food bloggers, in particular, have taken it upon themselves to unveil the hidden treasures of culinary delights. Resulting in a surge of customers flocking to these once-quiet and charming establishments. Whether it’s indulging in snacks in Bandra, savouring breakfast in Matunga, or relishing the infamous bun maska at Fort in Mumbai, every hidden gem is destined to be explored.
Supper Clubs
Also referred to as dinner clubs or social dining clubs, Supper Clubs have a rich history dating back to the early 20th Century. These unique spaces served as vibrant social hubs, where people could gather in a home and savour an exquisite meal together. Supper clubs are seeing a resurgence as interest in these unique dining experiences has piqued. People are now seeking alternatives to traditional restaurants and exploring the enchantment of experimental home cooking.
