Foods that require rice are replaced with cauliflower substitutes
Implications - Typically used as a substitute for meats by vegetarians and vegans, cauliflower is now being replaced in dishes that require or feature rice. Cauliflower rice serves individuals looking to avoid high-carb diets, and is diverse in its ability to transform both snacks and dishes. As consumers become increasingly picky in their purchase journey, brands are adapting by personalizing their offerings to small, niche interests.
Workshop Question - How could your brand better cater to niche consumer interests?
Trend Themes
1. Cauliflower Substitution - Cauliflower is becoming a substitute for high-carb foods like rice
2. Ready-made Healthy Meals - TYME is a new fast food company that sells healthy meals in jar packaging to busy adults who forget to pack their lunches
3. Diet-specific Meal Kits - Blue Apron has launched Whole30-approved recipes to help customers switch to a healthier lifestyle diet without sacrificing taste
Industry Implications
1. Food and Beverage - Brands can look to personalize their offerings like FullGreen's flavored Cauliflower Rice pouches to better suit consumers' niche interests
2. Health and Wellness - Disruptive innovation opportunities exist in the creation of healthy, gluten-free, and probiotic-rich snack foods like Vegan Rob's Cauliflower Puffs
3. Meal Kit Delivery Services - Companies like Blue Apron can benefit from developing more diet-specific meal plans to cater to customers interested in a healthier lifestyle
