three forward-looking trends

• Evergreen Consumption: A circular view of sustainability that spans the entire product lifecycle requires action from suppliers to consumers.

• Through the Ages: Food and drink will build on today’s dialogue about wellness and transition into more solutions for healthy aging.
• Elevated Convenience: To match the premium expectations of consumers in the on-demand age, convenience food and drink will get an upgrade.

Market intelligence agency Mintel has announced it says will lead the momentum of global food and drink innovation in 2019 and beyond.   “In 2019, support of and demand for more corporate sustainability programs will grow as consumers better understand what’s required to get closer to achieving a truly circular food and drink economy," says Jenny Zegler, associate director, Mintel Food & Drink. "These sustainability efforts will include not only improving access to recycling, but creating products with ingredients that are grown in accordance to regenerative agriculture practices.“Expect to also see food and drink manufacturers look to the beauty and personal care industry for inspiration for healthy aging product development. More food and drink will address longevity-related health concerns, be marketed with positive language that rejects terms like ‘anti-aging’ for its negative connotations, and appeal across ages.“Finally, we predict the rising segment of consumers who are often on-the-go, yet want to spend more time at home will increase demand for upscale, ‘speed scratch’ solutions and restaurant-quality, ready-to-consume products. As meal kits and foodservice-inspired beverages lead the way, there will also be more opportunities for brands to develop healthy, flavorful, customizable, and quick premium convenience products for breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks and dessert occasions.”