As the American diet fades, consumers turn to calorie-free imitations
Implications - While fast food is a staple for millions of Americans looking for a hot meal, the diet is receiving stronger than ever criticisms by health professionals the world over. As such, low calorie or calorie-free products are synthetically stimulating the taste buds of processed food fanatics that are looking to indulge without cheating on their diet. Seeing as calorie-laden meals are hardwired into the minds of Americans, the solutions satisfy a population that requires a softer approach to healthy eating and is more swayed by promises of guiltless indulgence than anything else.
Trend Themes
1. Calorie-free Products - Consumer demand for low calorie or calorie-free products is on the rise, catering to those that desire healthier eating without sacrificing indulgences.
2. Unconventional Flavors - Food and beverage companies are experimenting with unique and unexpected flavor combinations, such as bacon lubricant or mint chocolate toothpaste.
3. Childhood Nostalgia - Brands are tapping into consumer's memories of favorite childhood flavors and transforming them into new products, like cereal tea or shrimp mayonnaise chips.
Industry Implications
1. Food and Beverage Industry - There are numerous opportunities for food and beverage businesses to innovate by experimenting with new flavors and creating low calorie options for consumers seeking indulgences that are healthier and guilt-free.
2. Health and Wellness Industry - Companies involved in promoting healthy living can take advantage of the trend towards calorie-free and low calorie products as consumers are increasingly interested in making better dietary choices.
3. Personal Care Industry - There is potential for personal care businesses to disrupt their industry by expanding into unusual products, such as bacon-flavored lubricant or mint chocolate toothpaste.
