The Summer Fancy Food Show, hosted by the Specialty Food Association, showcased a variety of emerging trends in the food industry. Some of these trends may seem like a blast from the past, resembling the diet of our ancestors. Fish, honey, and game meat were highlighted as some of the hottest items at the show, signaling a return to more primal eating habits.
One standout trend from the show was the increasing popularity of honey as a flavor in various food and beverage products. Honey, a food that has been consumed for thousands of years, is now being featured prominently in a wide range of items. Companies like Green Bee, Owl Creek Organics & Natural Flavors, and Klepper & Klepper showcased products that utilized honey as a key ingredient, showcasing its versatility and health benefits.
In the past, tinned fish products were primarily associated with the Spanish and Portuguese cuisine. However, at this year’s show, exhibitors from across the globe highlighted their tinned fish offerings, responding to a growing demand for convenient, protein-rich snacks. Companies like Wildfish Cannery and Krill Arctic Foods showcased innovative flavors and packaging for their tinned fish products, appealing to a new generation of health-conscious consumers.
The charcuterie board trend, popularized on social media platforms like TikTok, continues to gain momentum. Exhibitors at the Summer Fancy Food Show presented new and exciting options for the classic charcuterie board, with a particular focus on salami. Tempesta Artisan Salumi and Salt & Twine offered unique flavor combinations like black truffle and mezcal with salted lime, appealing to adventurous food enthusiasts. Additionally, companies like Driftless Provisions and Fossil Farms showcased alternative protein sources like elk, venison, and bison in their charcuterie offerings, catering to consumers looking for more sustainable and exotic options.
No cocktail or wine tasting is complete without a delicious snack to complement the drink. At the show, companies like Wine Chips and The Drinks Bakery presented innovative snack options designed to be enjoyed with specific alcoholic beverages. The Drinks Bakery’s “drinks biscuits” are made to pair with a variety of drinks, from nonalcoholic beverages to whisky highballs, offering a unique tasting experience. Wine Chips, on the other hand, offers thick-cut potato chips specifically crafted to accompany different types of wine, enhancing the overall drinking experience.
The Summer Fancy Food Show showcased a diverse array of trends that are shaping the future of the food industry. From the resurgence of ancient ingredients like honey to the reinvention of traditional snacks like tinned fish and charcuterie, consumers can expect to see a wide range of exciting food options hitting the market in the coming months. As the industry continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how these trends influence dining habits and culinary preferences around the world.