# Experimental Fiber Boomers tackle burdensome nutritional consumption with experimentation. By [Tana Makmanee](https://www.trendhunter.com/tmak), SVP, Research Services at Trend Hunter | Published Apr 1, 2015 | Category: [Lifestyle](https://www.trendhunter.com/pro/category/lifestyle-trends) Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/protrends/experimental-fibre ## Key Figures - Trend score: 3.2/10 - Evidence articles: 5 ## What is the Experimental Fiber trend? **Experimental Fiber:** Adding an element of excitement to dietary routines, consumers are introducing nutrients and protein sources to more familiar, mainstream foods. Reflecting a desire to have the "best of both worlds," consumers are experimenting with food forms and ingredients to not only add in nutrients, but also add excitement to otherwise bland foods. ## At a Glance - Evidence: 5 featured examples - Articles from: Jan 19 to Jul 19, 2016 - Published: Apr 1, 2015 - Patterns: [Convergence](https://www.trendhunter.com/pattern/convergence), [Redirection](https://www.trendhunter.com/pattern/redirection) - Megatrends: [Hybridization](https://www.trendhunter.com/megatrend/hybridization), [Simplicity](https://www.trendhunter.com/megatrend/simplicity), [Naturality](https://www.trendhunter.com/megatrend/naturality) ## Audience - Gender: 50% men, 50% women - Top markets: North America ## Themes within the Experimental Fiber trend ### Functional Foods Consumers are adding ingredients that add nutrients, such as probiotics to everyday foods ### Plant-Based Proteins Beans are being used as an alternative base to traditional dishes due to their high in plant-based protein and fiber ### Gluten-Free Brands are creating new gluten-free options to accommodate those with food allergies and who are looking for a healthier alternative ## What the Experimental Fiber trend means for industry ### For Food and Beverage Brands can innovatively trial and add nutrients that enhance everyday foods to attract health-conscious consumers ### For Snack Bars and Pre-Packed Lunches Functional food bowls and packaged lunches offer the opportunity to include plant-based proteins to create nutritious, filling meals ### For Gluten-Free Products Consumers with gluten or allergy concerns need more gluten-free snack options and could benefit from healthier gluten-free options ## Workshop question How can your brand add an aspect of surprise and delight? Consider marketing strategies, add-ons, etc.? ## Trend signals for Experimental Fiber Trend score 3.2 out of 10, from popularity 46%, activity 43%, freshness 8%. - Popularity: 46% - Activity: 43% - Freshness: 8% ## Examples of the Experimental Fiber trend 5 featured examples from Jan 19 to Jul 19, 2016. - [Flavored Bean Snacks](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/brami): Brami's Lupini Bean Snack Comes in Four Protein-Rich Varieties (Category: Lifestyle) Implication: The trend of convenient and flavorful bean snacks presents disruptive innovation opportunities for companies in the snack industry to diversify their product offerings. - [Fiber-Filled Oatmeal Cups](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/oatmeal-cup): Bob's Red Mill Oatmeal Cups Come In a Variety of Tempting Flavors (Category: Lifestyle) Implication: Manufacturers that focus on creating nutritious and flavorful cereal options will have an advantage in the competitive breakfast food industry. - [High-Protein Legume Pastas](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/bean-pasta): The Explore Asian Gluten-Free Bean Pasta is Packed with Protein (Category: Lifestyle) Implication: The increasing demand for high-protein food options aligns with the growth of the health and wellness industry. - [Cultured Breakfast Burritos](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/healthy-burritos): Sweet Earth's Healthy Burritos Have Probiotics for Easy Digestion (Category: Lifestyle) Implication: The development and marketing of Sweet Earth's functional burrito line, including their probiotic 'Get Cultured' option, presents opportunities for innovation and growth in the fr… - [Chickpea-Based Brownies](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/garbanzo-bean-brownies): Pure Genius' Garbanzo Bean Brownies are Made with Nutritious Ingredients (Category: Lifestyle) Implication: Food companies can capitalize on the trend of healthier desserts with bean-based ingredients. ## Recent trend clusters - [Assisted Choices](https://www.trendhunter.com/protrends/weight-loss-medication-support) (Lifestyle) - [Storyline Sips](https://www.trendhunter.com/protrends/themed-drink-menus) (Lifestyle) - [Bedtime Cocoon](https://www.trendhunter.com/protrends/sleep-sensory-blocking) (Lifestyle) - [Source Signatures](https://www.trendhunter.com/protrends/oak-finish-whiskey) (Lifestyle) ## Trending in Lifestyle - [Mystery Packaging Campaigns](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/cow-not-laughing) - [Multi-Benefit Protein Shakes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/comes-in-three-flavors) - [Creator-Led Learning Series](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/learning-series) - [Accessible Fintech Pop-Ups](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/chequing-account) All articles: [Lifestyle](https://www.trendhunter.com/lifestyle)