Savoring Sustainability: A 2024 Round-Up of Upcycled Food Trends
By Mariel Nunley
Happy 2024! As we dive headfirst into the new year, the Upcycled Food Association is thrilled to see upcycled food continue to be recognized as a top food trend by retailers and industry leaders. These trendsetters know that food isn’t just sustenance; it can be a catalyst for positive change in our global food system. As consumers become increasingly conscious of the environmental impact of the food they purchase, the upcycled food industry stands poised for remarkable growth, offering not just a solution for surplus or wasted food but also a delicious array of innovative and sustainable products. Take a look at the retailers and food system leaders who have already identified upcycled food as a top trend for 2024. We can’t wait for more consumers, retailers, and businesses to discover upcycled food this year.
Utilizing by-products is a top 10 food trend for 2024 according to Whole Foods Market.
Whole Food Market forecasts that “using the whole cacao” to create new products with previously discarded cacao pulp and husk will become more prominent over the next year.
Mintel says upcycled ingredients have a huge opportunity in their annual trend list.
As consumers ask more questions about processed and ultra-processed foods, upcycled foods have an opportunity to provide natural nutrition from recognizable ingredients.
Specialty Food Association calls upcycled foods a continuing trend for 2024.
SFA notes that upcycled food isn’t new. “Regenerative, upcycled, and sustainably packaged are not just buzzwords but keywords in consumers' quests to eat well while doing good,” said Jonathan Deutsch, Drexel University.
Interest in upcycled products is the #1 trend for Midwest shoppers according to Fresh Thyme Market.
Midwestern shoppers are interested in upcycled food as a sustainable solution and value the credibility given to certified products.
Vegconomist calls upcycling a top 10 trend for 2024.
Upcycled foods align with consumers' climate values and shouldn’t shy away from promoting additional benefits.
Products with upcycled ingredients will be in high demand in 2024, says FreshDirect.
Products made from food scraps are predicted to be in higher demand as consumers strive to reduce food waste.
As we start this new year, it's evident that upcycled food is not just a passing trend but a movement gaining momentum on a global scale. The recognition of upcycled food as a top trend underscores its pivotal role in shaping a more sustainable food future. Cheers!
