Cronuts. Cold brew coffee. Sous vide cooking. The food and beverage world has just as many trends as fashion. Each year, new foods, drinks, and cooking techniques are introduced to the world, and while some fade away after a few months, other inventions have cemented their place at the table.
Just like any other industry, the food and beverage world is looking forward to 2019 and all the exciting (and sometimes weird) new creations that will soon be gracing palettes everywhere. We just had to share a few of our favorites, so sorry if you wind up hungry by the end!
2019 Food and Beverage Trends
Cannabidiol (CBD) — has been making headlines lately for its claims to help improve the physical and mental well-being of those who take it. A compound found in cannabis and hemp, CBD is non-addictive and boasts health benefits like help with sleeplessness, lowered anxiety, pain relief, acne control — the list goes on and on. The food world has taken notice and gotten crafty. In states that allow the legal use of CBD, cocktails are surfacing in bars that include this miracle natural wonder. The idea is that the inclusion of CBD will increase the enjoyment of a night out with friends without the addictiveness of THC, the other compound found in cannabis that makes it intoxicating.
Nootropics — The name might sound like a Dr. Suess species, but nootropics are something you’ve probably already experienced and enjoyed. Nootropics are “natural or synthetic substances that can be taken to improve mental performance in healthy people.” (source) Some common nootropics are caffeine, creatine, ginkgo biloba, and amphetamines. Nootropics in the food industry means focusing on ingredients that support a healthy mind and body, like eggs and blueberries. The focus in 2019 will be to see how many nootropics can be included in dishes to ensure that diners not only enjoy their meals but benefit from them, too.
Bugs — Yep, you read that right. Cooking with insects will be making a huge surge in the food and beverage industry as food costs continue to rise and limit chefs on a budget. Due to their extremely high availability and variety, culinary experimentalists have found ways to incorporate insects into more and more dishes, sometimes without you being aware. Much of the food you eat every day has a byproduct or trace of insect in them, and before you get grossed out, understand that insects actually provide the same if not better nutritional value for you as meat. Insect powders are being incorporated into cocktails, and flour made from crickets is starting to be used to make breads and pastries. Don’t be afraid to give this trend a try, the rest of the world has already!
Good Gut Bacteria — We’ve been hearing about ways to be kind to our guts for years. A healthy gut has been shown to have links to a healthy body overall, physically and mentally. Yogurts were the first big trend toward getting our guts healthy but over time, the options have grown. You’ve probably heard of kombucha (a fermented tea that’s in stores and coffee shops everywhere) and its claim to improve the immune and gut health of those that drink it. In 2019, more and more eateries will broaden their fermented food options to include things like “kimchi, pickles, sauerkraut, tempeh and kefir, as well as carrots and cream” in a bid to offer as many gut-healthy options to their customers as possible. (source)
Crazy Cocktails — When you’re enjoying a cocktail, you’re likely out for a special occasion or to wind down after a long day. So why shouldn’t your drinks add to the evening? Cocktails are some of the most expressive creative outlets for culinary masterminds, and in 2019, you will see drinks taking things to the next level. Garnishes that go the extra mile (hello there, crawfish) will instantly spice up your glass, and additives like CBD will lend your drink an extra punch that won’t leave you worse for wear in the morning.
Can you tell we get excited about our food and beverage news? At Marbury, we love getting to play in the food and beverage world and bring the excitement of this ever-changing industry directly to its audience: you! If you’re in the food and beverage industry and would like 2019 to be the year your business booms, we would love to partner with you! Contact the Marbury team today at group@marburycreativegroup.com.
