A new generation of modern convenience food and drink is emerging, said market intelligence agency Mintel. Manufacturers are responding to rising healthy eating priorities, quests for foodie-inspired flavours, interests in personalisation and competition from speedy delivery services.

A new wave of shortcuts will also be available, including the expansion of individual meal kits, foodservice-inspired packaged beverages, and a new generation of prepared meals, sides, and sauces that emulate the flavours and formats of restaurant meals.

Mintel predicts interest in premium convenience will not be limited to dinnertime, creating opportunities for every meal, snack, and beverage break.

“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,” said Jenny Zegler, associate director at Mintel Food and Drink.

“As meal kits and foodservice-inspired beverages lead the way, there will also be more opportunities for brands to develop healthy, flavourful, customisable, and quick premium convenience products for breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks and dessert occasions,” she continued.

Another trend identified by Mintel will build on the current focus on wellness and transition into solutions for healthy ageing. Mintel believes more food and drink can be formulated to address concerns from people of all ages about bone, joint, brain and eye health as well as other age-related health concerns.

“Expect to also see food and drink manufacturers look to the beauty and personal care industry for inspiration for healthy ageing product development. More food and drink will address longevity-related health concerns, be marketed with positive language that rejects terms like ‘anti-ageing’ for its negative connotations, and appeal across ages,” Jenny added.

The final trend Mintel identified for next year regards sustainability. Sustainability efforts will include not only improving access to recycling, but incentivising consumers to recycle packaging and offering upcycled goods.

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