Just like in fashion and home décor, there are food trends that take the world by storm every year. Some seem to come out of nowhere, while others slowly gather steam over time. See if you spot these three highlights this season.
Non-alcoholic spirit boom
A shift towards low or no-alcohol drinks that don’t compromise on taste or texture has been gradually growing for years as innovation-minded, health-aware younger drinkers refuse to settle for hangovers. Now that Health Canada has recommended Canadians limit alcohol to two drinks a week, more of us are considering how we can ditch the booze without losing the party. Aromatic gin-like bottles are ruling this market. And while vodka, tequila and wine are harder to mimic, options exist and they’re growing.
Fantastic fungi
Love them or hate them, mushrooms have long been known as a versatile and nutritious food, chock full of vitamins and minerals. A hot ingredient last year, the trend is expected to grow as consumers continue turning their eyes – and stomachs – towards more plant-based and sustainably grown eats. Keep an eye out for classics like cremini and portobella as well as more exotic Lion’s mane or maitakes.
Nostalgic and retro treats
Comfort is king when it comes to popular foods, especially after the last few years. And what’s more comforting than snacks from your childhood? But even classic treats and candy are getting a clean and contemporary makeover in a variety of forms including small batch artisanal hard candies, chewy gummies and puckering sour suckers. Look out for old-school flavours like tutti-frutti alongside more elevated tastes like rose, lychee or plum.
Whether these food trends have you excited or rolling your eyes, know that they’re covered by recently updated regulations that help ensure food safety. Producers of these items and most other manufactured food products have new requirements to follow under the Safe Food for Canadians Regulations if they’re imported, exported or sold between provinces.
Find out more about the regulations that help to keep our food safe at inspection.canada.ca
