Food trends change every year, and 2014 was no exception. With health and sustainability being the buzzwords, there was a shift towards more plant-based options and artisanal products.
This article explores the top food options for 2014, covering both mainstream and niche trends.
1. Gluten-Free
Gluten-free diets gained popularity in 2014, with more and more people opting for this lifestyle choice due to health reasons or as a dietary trend.
Restaurants and fast food chains began offering gluten-free options, including pizza and pasta, to cater to this growing market. Gluten-free products in supermarkets also increased, making it easier for consumers to stick to their diets.
2. Plant-Based Diets
Vegetarianism, veganism, and flexitarianism movements continued to gain momentum in 2014. More people began to realize the health benefits of plant-based diets and their positive impact on the environment.
Restaurants began including more plant-based options on their menus, and supermarkets stocked a wide variety of meat alternatives such as tofu, tempeh, and seitan.
3. Artisanal Products
Artisanal food products, including bread, cheese, and charcuterie, gained popularity in 2014. Consumers began to appreciate the time, effort, and expertise that went into producing these handmade products.
Farmers’ markets, specialty stores, and online retailers offered an extensive range of artisanal products that were not only delicious but also supported small businesses.
4. Clean Eating
Clean eating, characterized by consuming unprocessed, whole foods, and avoiding additives, was a significant trend in 2014. Consumers began to read labels carefully and opt for foods with fewer and cleaner ingredients.
Quinoa, chia seeds, and kale were among the popular superfoods that consumers began to incorporate into their diets.
5. Locally Sourced Ingredients
Consumers became more conscious of where their food came from and how it was produced in 2014. The trend towards locally sourced ingredients gained popularity, with restaurants and supermarkets showcasing the origin of their products.
Farm-to-table dining became more common, and farmers’ markets became more popular than ever.
6. Ethnic Cuisine
The trend towards authentic ethnic cuisine grew in 2014, with consumers seeking out more exotic flavors and dishes. Mexican, Korean, and Middle Eastern foods were among the most popular cuisines.
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Restaurants began to incorporate traditional cooking techniques and ingredients from different cultures, and food trucks specializing in ethnic cuisine became increasingly popular.
7. Paleo Diet
The Paleo diet, characterized by a focus on whole foods, including meat, fish, fruits, and vegetables, and avoiding grains, dairy, and processed foods, gained mainstream popularity in 2014.
Paleo-friendly products, including grass-fed beef and coconut oil, became more widely available, and more restaurants began to offer Paleo options on their menus.
8. Cold-Pressed Juices
Cold-pressed juices became popular in 2014, with consumers seeking out a healthier alternative to sugary sodas and juices. These juices, made using a hydraulic press, did not involve heat, resulting in higher nutrient levels and better taste.
Specialty juice bars, supermarkets, and online retailers began to offer a broad range of cold-pressed juice flavors.
9. Fermented Foods
Fermented foods, including kimchi, kombucha, and kefir, gained popularity in 2014 due to their reported health benefits.
These foods underwent a natural fermentation process, promoting the growth of healthy bacteria, which helped in improving gut health and immunity. Consumers began to incorporate fermented foods into their diets as a snack or side dish.
10. Small Plates
The trend towards small plates continued in 2014, with consumers opting for sharing dishes rather than individual entrees.
This trend was particularly popular in tapas and mezze-style restaurants, where a broad range of small plates offered diners an opportunity to sample a variety of flavors and dishes.
Conclusion
2014 saw a significant shift towards healthier, more sustainable eating choices.
The popularity of plant-based diets, artisanal products, and locally sourced ingredients demonstrated a growing awareness of the importance of supporting small businesses and the environment. The emphasis on clean eating, gluten-free options, and cold-pressed juices highlighted a concern for personal health and wellness.
With these trends showing no signs of slowing down, it is evident that the food industry will continue to evolve towards a more conscious and mindful future.
