Fresh alternatives to shelf food
Consumers can expect to see more innovation of "shelf-stable" foods such as pasta sauces or protein bars, which typically aren't refrigerated but will be after they are made with more fresh ingredients.
CBD-infused foods
Cannabidiol, an ingredient derived from the cannabis plant that has been linked to a range of health benefits, has become one of the most talked-about ingredients of 2018, with retailers selling everything from CBD teas and beer alternatives to CBD dog treats, coffee, and supplements.
According to the report, it's on its way to becoming a major trend in food as well.
Canned fish
Canned fish is in vogue at the moment thanks to trendy restaurants putting it on their menus. Now, we can expect to see grocers jumping on the bandwagon.
"The canned format allows for unique experimentation, fostering the ability for consumers to try rare and flavorful species from all over the world, regardless of season," FreshDirect wrote in its press release.
Oats
Oat milk has become the hot new product in the dairy-free aisle and is positioned to take over nut milks as the leading milk alternative.
Oat milk is a more sustainable and less water-intensive alternative option than almond milk, and it's often less expensive.
According to FreshDirect, we should expect to see more oat-based products in 2018, including yogurts and cheeses.
Spice packets
Consumers are looking for complete convenience when it comes to cooking, and spice packets and simmer sauces are coming to their rescue.
"These flavorful packets can spice up protein, noodles, or veggies in a portion-controlled, convenient, and simple way. Premium spice packets fit into the developing themes of portion control and one-time use, giving consumers more options with less commitment," FreshDirect said.
Cheaper organic food
Customers are increasingly becoming more open to buying organic foods that might not yet carry a formal certification.
According to FreshDirect, its sister company FoodKick started an initiative to support local farms by buying all their produce during their transitional stage, the three-year process that farms have to undertake to transition to organic farming practices.
"Customers can support local farmers and their better growing practices, while getting produce grown with organic methods before its certification at lower-than-organic prices," FreshDirect said.
Cauliflower
The cauliflower craze is already well-established in the US, but we can expect to see it creeping its way into more of our meals.
The vegetable is now used as an alternative to grains — cauliflower-based pizzas, rice, and crackers are a few examples of this trend.
Healthy kids' snacks
Kids' snacking is about to get a lot healthier; cookies and crackers are out, and nutritious alternatives are in.
Even ice cream is getting a makeover. Trendy food startup Peek-a-Boo has created new recipes that bring vegetables into the mix.
Technology enables seasonal produce to be available year-round
Innovation in food production will enable out-of-season strains and varietals to be grown locally, FreshDirect said.
This means we can expect to see more tropical produce on the shelves in 2019.
