Page 31 - Interface August 2024

FOOD TRENDS
FOOD TRENDS

hile trends are ever more The preference for local ingredients Turmeric, known for its powerful anti-
challenging to predict in our is strong in ANZ (Australia and New inflammatory and antioxidant properties,
Wfast-paced world, we can Zealand); beverage flavours such as will shine in savoury dishes and beverages.
be sure that this year promises to focus mango, kiwi, peach, passion fruits, This golden spice adds an earthy, warm
on affordable, healthy and sustainable pomegranate, grapefruit, black and slightly bitter taste to recipes,
eating. It will be interesting to see how currant and honeydew are trending, perfectly complementing poultry, seafood
the industry responds to these consumer indicating a resurgence of pride in local and vegetables. It contains impressive
suggestions. Speciality ingredients ingredients. health benefits. Turmeric is the perfect
such as Lion’s Mane mushrooms and choice for dishes that need a bit of extra
buckwheat are perfect examples of foods The humble fig leaf is a surprising new colour. Its vibrant yellow-orange colour will
that may be in high demand as research must-have ingredient for chefs. The brighten any plate while adding fantastic
into their benefits to physical and mental leaves are being used in everything flavour and nutrition.
well-being becomes popularised. from ice cream to curry. The leaf can’t
be eaten raw, but its sweet, creamy, PLANT-BASED LIFESTYLES
WHAT FOODS ARE TRENDING herbal flavour can be infused into oils, ARE STILL ON THE RISE
THIS YEAR? dairy, or syrups as a cocktail ingredient. Plant-based living continues to gain
2024 is a year of alternatives, including Given the versatility and abundance of momentum, driven by health and
almond milk, vegetarian fried chicken, the fig leaf, we are sure to be seeing environmental concerns. Restaurants are
potato milk, fusion flavours and plant- more of the fig leaf in 2024. expected to expand their plant-based
based meat, to name a few. There is also offerings, catering to an ever-growing
a focus on global dishes, even more bold Saffron is a spice that is long segment of diners embracing a meat-
flavours and urban produce. appreciated across the globe, free lifestyle. The emphasis is not only
captivating hearts and palates with its on salads but on inventive and flavourful
WHAT IS THE SPICY TREND deep-red colour and complex flavour. veggie-forward dishes that appeal to a
IN 2024? Originating from the delicate stigma diverse audience. Plant-based fish and
Fermented flavours like doubanjiang or (centre) of the saffron crocus flower, seafood replacements are predicted to be
fermented chillies are beginning to trend it transforms the ordinary into the seen on supermarket shelves.
in 2024. extraordinary, infusing dishes with a
subtle, earthy sweetness and floral
Adaption: Dried peppers and dried notes that dance on the palate.
pepper flakes such as guajillo. Aleppo
and anchos are currently trending.

Proliferation: Explore sweet and savoury
options, especially with tropical fruits.

WHAT ARE THE TRENDING
FLAVOURS IN 2024?
Flavour and trend changes have
also seen sweet and spicy flavour
combinations trending in 2024, with
spicy chocolate and spicy honey as
prime examples. More sophisticated
flavours, including lavender
and chamomile and exotic
fruits like Prickly Pear,
are also entering the
market.

INTERIOR DÉCOR Styles and Trends | 29