It’s safe to say that keto, poke bowls, rolled ice cream, and a lot more took over 2018. It’s a new year, and we can’t help but wonder which food trends might be up next. Thankfully, a bunch of studies and predictions have been made by Whole Foods, The National Restaurant Association, and more. Here, we’ve listed down the food items that are expected to reign in 2019.
#1 Faux meat
From lab-grown to fruit-based alternatives, faux meat continues to have a moment for 2019. The Impossible Burger from Impossible Foods, made from heme protein, is going to be released in retail stores this year. While jackfruit is forecasted to take off as a meat alternative.
Whole Foods is also banking on faux meat but in the form of snacks. The report says, “Mushrooms like king trumpet will play a key role here, flexing their flavor and texture powers in tasty jerky, ‘pork rinds’ and ‘bacon’ snacks (used in both Pig Out Pigless Bacon Chips and Snacklins Cracklins Without the Pork) to offer up a satisfying crunch.”
#2 Pegan diet
A combination of Paleo and vegan, the Pegan diet, is set to take over 2019. This is according to a trend report by Pinterest, which revealed that search queries for the lifestyle went up by 337 percent. The diet term was coined by American physician Dr. Mark Hyman, who believes “this way of eating makes the most sense for our health and the health of our planet.”
#3 Oat milk
Right now, the interest in oat milk has surged so high that there’s already a shortage for the milk alternative. But don’t fret as it only takes 10 minutes to make a homemade version, and all you need are rolled oats, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and optional spices.
#4 Mushrooms
Whether as a side or a soup ingredient, mushrooms have, for the most part, taken the backseat when it comes to cooking. This year, however, the fungi are being used as meat substitutes leading it to be touted as the “It” food of 2019. Even mushroom-infused spirits are getting the light of day.
#5 New meat cuts
This particular trend is one that’s carried over from last year. According to the National Restaurant Association, “on trend and inexpensive, shoulder tender, oyster steak, Vegas Strip or a Merlot cut” continue to be popular among restaurants and consumers.
#6 Seed butter
Butter made from almond, cashew, and walnut ruled 2018, but this year a new offering is predicted to join these nut butters. According to a study by KIND Healthy Snacks, seed butter from sunflower, pumpkin, and watermelon seeds are forecasted to be a popular alternative.
#7 Dessert hummus
One of the most surprising trends is chickpea-based desserts. It’s one ingredient that will be everywhere, from milkshakes, ice cream as part of the dairy-free movement. What’s more, chickpea is full of nutrients, which makes it an ideal base for dessert.
#8 Frosé
The frose can be traced back to 2017, but it never quite caught on as strongly as other drink trends. This year, however, is seen to be the frozen drink’s year. What makes this year’s version more interesting is the addition of a classic flavor: The Aperol Spritz.
#9 Sourdough bread
Bread is making a comeback after years of carb-free trends. Out of all, sourdough is going to be strong this year, according to Pinterest. This time, bread baking at home is seen as the driver of the trend. Searches for baking bread rose to 413 percent from last year.
#10 Essential oil
One of the biggest wellness trends for 2019 are edible essential oils. Much like bitters for cocktails, essential oils such as lemon and peppermint are excellent accents for food and drinks. If you’re keen to try it, make sure you use oils that are labeled as food grade.
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