In 2023, the Godrej Food Trends Report emerged as a definitive guide, illuminating the nation’s culinary landscape with trends centered around self-care and mindful consumption. Prepared through a collaborative effort involving over 350 culinary luminaries, comprising celebrity chefs, home cooks, bloggers, and healthcare experts, the report not only predicted but also influenced the rise of sustainable and health-conscious culinary practices that left an indelible mark on our dining experiences. As we wind through 2024, several of these trends continue to resonate, promising to maintain their momentum in the year ahead.
Farm-to-Table Restaurants: Nourishing Body and Soul
Industry experts reported that a remarkable 60% surge was witnessed in the farm-to-table restaurant concept that fostered a deeper connection between consumers and their food. Restaurant such as The Banyan Tree Café in Mumbai, Elina Vara in Delhi and Farmlore in Bangalore are a few examples of the ever-changing dynamic of farm to table restaurants. These restaurants exemplify the idea of cooking with sustainable organic ingredients without compromising on taste.
Sweet Indulgences without Guilt
Sweets have always been a favorite of the typical Indian household as it was the third most ordered dish nationally. Yet 2023 presented a unique change as desserts with healthier claims became increasingly popular, endorsed by a substantial 69% of experts. Sweets such as Mishti Doi, Kheer, Phirni and Halwa providing a protein packed punch for the average Indian sweet tooth.
The Evolution of Ice Cream: Clean, Dairy-Free, and Delicious
Ice cream, a perennial favorite indulgence, has also undergone a transformation towards health-consciousness. With 75% of experts noting a rising demand for dairy-free and vegan options, the market has seen a shift as consumers move beyond the flavor and towards the ingredients of a guilt free treat. Mumbai, Delhi, Bangalore, and Chennai saw an increased demand for such healthy vegan ice creams as the urban population adopts a mindful, nutritious mindset towards food.
Wellness in Every Sip
In the wake of global health concerns, consumers are prioritizing immunity and functional health-boosting beverages, with a notable 56% of experts acknowledging their popularity. From herbal teas to probiotic-rich kombuchas, consumers are embracing beverages that not only quench thirst but also nourish their bodies with vitamins, antioxidants, and immune-boosting ingredients.
Rushina Munshaw Ghildiyal, Managing Director of A Perfect Bite Consulting and Curating Editor of the annual Godrej Foods Trends, says. “From the resurgence of farm-to-table dining to the flourishing array of plant-based alternatives and guilt-free desserts, each trend of 2023 reflected a conscious choice towards holistic wellness. Now with the much-awaited launch of the Godrej Food Trend Report 2024, we can look forward to new trends that will take these conversations around sustainable and enlightened approaches to food consumption further.”
Godrej Food Trends Report 2023 is available for download at www.vikhrolicucina.com
