Whole Foods predicts 2021 food trends for the post-pandemic food world

Could the Whole Foods 2021 food trends be part of your food world?

Can you guess the 2021 food trends? As Whole Foods looks to predict the state of the food industry, its list of 2021 food trends represent a glimpse of the post-pandemic food world. While it can be difficult to forecast what can truly happen in this ever-changing world, these food concepts and products reflect the adapting consumer.

Looking back at the 2020 food trends, a few of the predictions did come to fruition. While there has been a rise in global flavors, immunity foods and plant-based food offerings, no one would have expected some other food trends from this past year. If anyone had thought that sourdough starter would have been in everyone’s kitchen, they were truly clairvoyant.

The Whole Foods 2021 food trends take into consideration the many changes that impacted the food world in 2020. According to Sonya Gafsi Oblisk, Chief Marketing Officer at Whole Foods Market, “There have been radical shifts in consumer habits in 2020. For example, shoppers have found new passions for cooking, they’ve purchased more items related to health and wellness, and more are eating breakfast at home every day compared to pre-COVID. Food trends are a sign of the times, and our 2021 trends are no exception.”

Whole Foods predicts the following 2021 food trends:

Focus on well-being

Many foods will blur the line between supplements and food by focusing on functional ingredients. While many people have already incorporated superfoods and probiotics into their food choices, broths and sauerkrauts will become even more popular. Overall, people are looking for tasty ways to support the immune system.

Epic Breakfasts are a great way to start the day

The breakfast has become the family meal. Without the rush to get out the door, breakfast has become a bigger experience. From egg bites to pancakes, breakfast is most definitely the most important meal of the day.

Basics get a makeover

While back to basics cooking is a huge trend, those pantry essentials are getting a new twist. Instead of the old school traditional flavors, salts get smoky, pasta gets a vegetable twist and event that vegan soup is a little “meatier.”

Coffee expands beyond the morning mug

Coffee flavors are taking over everywhere. While many people have seen a rise in coffee cocktails, coffee candy and even coffee cereal, those coffee flavors will continue to be 2021 food trends. From yogurt to even granola, coffee is an all day, all food flavor.

Baby food gets elevated

Sometimes introducing flavors to children at a young age can create a foodie for life. Baby food looks more like food that parents eat. From rhubarb to purple carrots, these little eaters are enjoying some big flavors. Maybe that will help parents as the kids get older (or encourage the parents to eat better, too).

Upcycling is more than décor

The old adage of root to tip is becoming even more important. Many companies are starting to embrace the under-used portions of certain ingredients. From broccoli stems to carrot fronds, food waste is being tackled head on.

Olive isn’t the only oil

While everyone has at least one bottle of olive oil in the house, it isn’t the only oil that can be used in cooking. Why not explore some other oil options. Some oils, like walnut, add a lovely nutty note to dishes. Other oils can be cooked at a higher temperature. Try exploring oils and see how those recipes transform.

Kombucha with a kick

While many people drink kombucha for the healthy eating component, some brands are kicking it up another notch. Alcoholic kombucha is on the rise. Although it is not the sober movement trend, it gives people the sense of balance in their cocktail glass. Why not take a sip and see what you think?

Versatility of chickpeas

Sure, everyone uses chickpeas in hummus and falafel, but that chickpea can be so much more. It seems that chickpeas are the new cauliflower. Why not try this salad recipe and see why you should have some extra chickpeas in the house.

Produce goes jerky

While many people love a good beef jerky, it seems that the produce aisle is embracing the jerky trend. From mushrooms to jackfruit, that piece of jerky has some added benefits. Plus, it could be a convenient way to eat more fruits and vegetables.

These are Whole Foods predicted 2021 food trends. Everyone will have to look back a year from now and see if these items filled your pantry. Ready to start exploring some food flavors?

What was your favorite food trend from 2020? Did you discover something new that is now your pantry staple?