Hibiscus emerges as a flavor in foods rather than being restricted to beverages
Implications - Once largely exclusive to beverages or garnishes, hibiscus is emerging as a popular flavor in various food items within North America. The infusion of this ingredient into contemporary food products reveals the power of foodie culture in fueling the transformation of the traditional in a way that fuses history and modernity.
Workshop Question - How could you take inspiration from historically used products/services to elevate your offerings?
Trend Themes
1. Floral Foods - The infusion of botanicals like hibiscus into modern food products is fueling a growing interest in natural flavoring and floral foods.
2. Superfoods - GoBeyond Foods is sourcing nutrient-dense superfoods like blue green algae, maca root, kombucha and noni to provide supreme nutritional benefits and disrupt the traditional dairy industry.
3. CBD Edibles - Leif Goods is producing vegan certified, fair-trade and 100% organic chocolate bars infused with THC, CBD and hibiscus alongside other unique flavors and ingredients.
Industry Implications
1. Food and Beverage - The power of foodie culture in creating new flavor trends and fueling the transformation of traditional foods into modern, botanical-infused products shows great opportunities for innovation and product development.
2. Health and Wellness - The popularity of superfoods and health-conscious eating habits is driving new innovations in the dairy-free and anti-aging markets.
3. Hospitality and Tourism - Chicha Cafetín and Cocktails is bringing unique, underrepresented cuisines like Nicaraguan food and rum to new markets, showing a growing opportunity for niche and cultural cuisine in the hospitality industry.
