Amy Bond, Assistant Librarian & Information Specialist, Bord Bia - The Irish Food Board
Consumers increasingly view their food as the sum of its ingredients and individual ingredients can become heroes across food categories, usually with the right social media momentum behind them. Including one of these trending ingredients can help your product stand out on the crowded supermarket shelf.
GlobalData have identified the top 10 ingredients they think will have the biggest impact in 2020 (GlobalData, 2020).
1. CBD: This is a functional ingredient derived from the cannabis satvia plant, with claims of therapeutic benefits. Even though it’s claims have limited clinical proof behind them it is being included in a wide range of categories.
2. Pea: This is viewed as a healthy and sustainable protein that is taking the place of soy in many formulations.
3. Watermelon: While still being enjoyed in its own right, this ingredient is also being used as a fish substitute.
4. Mushroom: A focus on the health benefits of mushrooms is seeing a boost in their use as an ingredient.
5. Tiger Nut: This is an ancient superfood that is finding a place for itself in the vegan and free from markets.
6. Ube: While also having many health benefits, ube’s vibrant purple colour is a strong source of its appeal to the Instagram generation.
7. Probiotics: Probiotics are live bacteria and yeasts. Their gut health claims mean they are perfectly positioned to exploit the digestive health trend.
8. Bamboo: The sustainability credentials of this plant have led to a marked increase in its use in packaging across FMCG categories.
9. Yuzu: This stands out as a more exotic member of the citrus family that still gives a vitamin C boost.
10. Turmeric: This ingredient continues to drive interest with its eye catching colour and anti-inflammatory claims.
References
GlobalData. (2020). Top 10 Trending Ingredients in 2020. GlobalData. Retrieved from https://www.globaldata.com/