1. A Transparent Plate
More than ever, we need to be well informed about what we eat. And all that depends on good communication between makers and consumers. Again this year, we want to know what’s on our plate so that we can make enlightened choices. And when we know where our food comes from, it’s even better!
THEME
Eat Local
2. Efficient Cooking
The pandemic made us feel like starting to cook at home again. A lot. What changes this year is the desire to continue preparing meals, but in an efficient way. Culinary projects make way for quick and fun recipes—and not just on weekdays, but on weekends as well.
3. Keep It Natural
The shift towards foods that have gone through less processing has already begun and it’s continuing. One exception: canned fruits and vegetables. So, canned tomatoes as well as pre-packaged fruit cups are popular and especially convenient.
32% of Canadians say that processed products that contribute to their fruit and vegetable intake are an important element when they go grocery shopping.
Source: Nourish Food Marketing Trend Report 2024
4. The Comeback of a Star Cereal
More and more foods are chosen based on their nutritional value, environmental durability and potential to ensure food security around the world. At the top of the list is quinoa. Since the UN named it “plant of the year” in 2013, this cereal has been making a noticeable comeback. It checks several boxes, starting with the fact that it can be prepared easily, is gluten-free and healthy, and grows in the most arid places. We love cooking it in every possible way!
VEGETARIAN
Quinoa and Tofu with Kale Salad
5. Eat Less, Discard Less
The environment remains at the heart of our preoccupations in 2024. Climate change is affecting crops and consumed products, causing prices to increase. As a result, we try not to waste anything and prioritize more than ever the quality of ingredients over quantity.
6. Optimized Food
Food apps are more popular than ever in 2024. Technology is here to organize our meal planning and grocery management. These tools guide us on a day-to-day basis by helping us optimize our meals and snacks, but also by suggesting menus or recipes based on the week’s specials, so that you can save more money. You’re becoming meal prep experts, thanks in good part to My RICARDO+.
51% of Canadians say that a recipe’s prep time is one of the first criteria they consider when setting out to cook.
Source: Mintel Reports US, Tech Trends, 2023
7. Low-Alcohol (or Non-Alcoholic) Beverages
Non-alcoholic and light beers and ready-to-drink cocktails have taken up a good part of the market in recent years. These beverages are more and more popular among consumers looking to reduce their alcohol consumption without having to compromise on taste. Good thing there are tons of possibilities!
8. AI on the Menu
The young are very comfortable with digital devices and the way to access information about food and meal preparation with help from smart cooking tools available on our home appliances (including home automation, which is able to suggest menus based on the contents of your fridge). This allows for more personalized cooking than ever. In 2024, invite your young chefs to cook with you to initiate them into the pleasures of preparing meals.
Theme
For Kids
9. Sharp Brain
Now our priority is to make sure we live long, healthy lives, especially when it comes to our brainpower. And that’s more and more all about what we eat. We’re looking for healthy ways of preserving our memory and concentration longer than ever. It’s said that foods rich in choline help maintain good cognitive health. That means more fish, eggs and broccoli in our diets!
40% of consumers would prefer a diet that helps maintain healthy brainpower.
Source: Nourish Food Marketing Trend Report 2024
10. Avant-Garde Meatless Meals
For the past few years, plant-based products have enjoyed a little revolution. More and more consumers have started eating less meat partly because of the rising cost of it. This year, we’re celebrating plants themselves, instead of what they replace or limit. Above all, we’re embracing the pleasure of consuming plant-based products. Need inspiration for cooking vegan? Click here!
THEME
Vegan
Bonus Prediction
Last year’s Trends for 2023 ended with a prediction that we’d be “daring to try something new again,” as in new cuisines or new proteins. For 2024, we believe that “enjoying again” is on topic. Whether it’s the present moment, a table surrounded by our loved ones or a new food we’ve just discovered, it’s time to seize every opportunity to take a break so that we can begin anew!