What’s cooking for 2006?

Some industry experts are predicting the hottest new food trends to focus on -- of all things -- a sensible, healthful, and balanced diet.


“Over the next few years, I think consumers’ focus will be on maintaining a healthy balance of carbs and calories, as opposed to extreme food choices,” Lynn Dornblaster, an analyst with market research firm Mintel, told Reuters.


And a recent AC Nielsen report predicted that because of growing rates of obesity, diabetes, and high blood pressure, consumers will continue to obsess over their health.


Products containing low glycemic index (GI) will continue to be popular, with some experts claiming the GI system to be a more sensible version of the low-carb Atkins diet. (The glycaemic index measures how quickly certain foods release carbohydrates into the body, which in turn raise consumers’ blood glucose levels.) Evidence has shown that low GI foods can help control weight and reduce the risk of diabetes.


According to AC Nielsen, antioxidants are also set to hit the mainstream. “Spending on antioxidants in health activists’ markets was estimated to be among the highest of all health-related categories in terms of year-over-year growth,” the study reported.


Liquid tea led the segment, while organic products also experienced continued growth.


Other food trends to look for:



More top quality frozen organic foods, particularly vegetables.


More whole grains. General Mills, for instance, recently converted all their cereal brands to whole grains, as well as certain bakery items such as cinnamon rolls, croissants and puff pastries.


Organic chocolate (the cocoa plant is one of the most heavily sprayed with pesticides.)


Snacks that deliver balanced nutrition through portion control such as small, 100 calorie packs of Oreo cookies and Cheese Nips


More products addressing specific health benefits, such as the French company Danone’s line of Activia probiotic yogurts to help regulate the digestive system.


More food products formulated or packaged specifically for older boomers, such as Proctor & Gamble’s Folgers Aroma Seal coffee canister that has as easy-grip molded handle.


The consensus among industry experts and trend spotters is that for 2006, health is definitely hot, which means consumers will at least try to eat healthier.





© February 2006 Fifty-Plus.net Inc.