14 Food Trends to Watch in 2014: Part One

Opportunities exist for manufacturers to cater directly to on-off dieters

“On-off” diets are gaining increasing acceptance among weight conscious consumers in developed markets, and can be regarded as a profitable opportunity for food manufacturers. Strategies to benefit from this trend include the introduction of multipack ranges adapted to the diet calendar.

The high protein craze expected to move into snack bars, cheese and beyond

Protein-enriched dairy products have seen a steady flow of new product developments, with many expanding beyond yoghurt into snack bars and other products. New strategies could include combining protein and fibre in bakery products.

Food brands need to be seen to be taking action against food wastage

Food wastage is increasingly regarded as unethical. Certification, awareness initiatives and education campaigns that target ethical consumers are a few ways in which food manufacturers can be seen to be taking action. “Low- waste” shelf areas for waste efficient food products could also be a possibility within supermarkets in markets that are particularly sensitive to the trend.

Participation in the war against waste is likely to lead to a win-win scenario

As most food wastage is generated by inefficiencies in the supply chain, any reduction in waste will reduce the input costs of manufacturing. This would be particularly beneficial for the dairy and bakery sectors, which are most prone to food wastage. Low (or zero) waste products could provide another crucial difference between branded and private label offerings to consumers.

Certification or traceability of food is an expensive but necessary option for brands in some markets

With an array of dairy and meat product scandals afflicting the food industry in 2013, many consumers will want to see real action being taken in 2014. In markets such as China, nothing short of independent certification is likely to be valued by consumers, but this could add a premium to certified brands.

What this report includes

• Top-level strategic analysis of how major consumer trends will influence global markets
• Consumer insight
• Impact across all relevant consumer markets
• Unique graphics and case studies
• Key market snapshots
• Accompanying presentation to synthesise main findings

Why buy this report

• Identify factors driving change now and in the future
• Understand motivation
• Forward-looking outlook
• Briefings and presentation should provoke lively discussion at senior level
• Take a step back from micro trends
• Get up to date estimates and comment