The New Year is on the horizon, and our friends over at Whole Foods Market are already looking ahead to the hot new food and beverage trends that consumers won’t be able to get enough of in 2022. The retailer shared its seventh-annual trends predictions this week, and we at Lajollacooks4u are excited to see that some of our favorite things have made the list.
Read on to learn what flavors, practices, and ingredients are predicted to be all over the grocery shelves during the next year.
Ultra-Urban Farming
According to Whole Foods, farm producers are continuously finding innovative ways to maximize efficiency and grow produce in difficult areas. Brands have taken notice of this and are starting to jump on new technology in order to get things growing in the most unexpected of places.
Yuzu
This citrus fruit – mainly cultivated in Japan, Korea, and China – is about to take the culinary world by storm, according to Whole Foods. Expect this tangerine-sized fruit to pop up in the form of “vinaigrettes, hard seltzers, mayos, and more.”
Reducetarianism
This trend involves reducing consumption of meat, dairy, and eggs without cutting them out completely. So, if you’re not 100% committed to going fully plant-based, this may be for you! According to Whole Foods Market, “when animal products are on the menu, reducetarians make them count, opting for premium grass-fed meat and pasture-raised eggs.”
Hibiscus
Though it’s been a common fixture in teas, producers are now harnessing hibiscus’ sweet, tart flavor in the form of fruit spreads, yogurts, and even collagen powders. Beverage makers aren’t far behind, according to Whole Foods, as they are utilizing hibiscus to craft delicious drinks with the plant’s signature hot-pink hue.
Buzz-less Spirits
Mocktails have seen record growth in stores as of late, so be prepared for a new lineup of drinks that provide the taste and sophistication of a cocktail, but without the buzz.
Grains that Give Back
With a refocus back on the environment, producers are now looking to grow grocery grains with agriculture practices and farming processes that help promote soil health.
Sunflower Seeds
Sunflowers seeds aren’t just for seed butters anymore. According to Whole Foods Market, expect these mighty little seeds to be incorporated into crackers, ice creams, and creamy cheeses, just to name a few.
Moringa
Traditionally used as an herbal remedy in India, Africa, and beyond, moringa is quickly gaining popularity in the U.S. as matcha’s latest alternative. This superfood can be found in powder form and added into smoothies, sauces, and baked goods, and it’s also expected to show up in products, such as frozen desserts and even protein bars.
Functional Fizz
Bubbly beverages are expected to hit the shelves in droves next year, but consumers are looking for sparkling drinks that not only taste great, but also offer ingredients that balance out the sweetness. Think soda with probiotics or fizzy tonics with added botanicals, according to Whole Foods.
Turmeric
One of our favorite ingredients! This spice is expected to be even more widespread next year, and according to Whole Foods, found specifically in “packaged foods like cereals, sauerkrauts, and even plant-based ice cream.”
