Whole Foods Market revealed its first-ever plant-based trend predictions, with nut-based cheese alternatives, banana blossoms and creamy cashew dips topping the list.
“Plant-based is the grocery category to watch right now as brands continue to innovate by using new ingredients and processes that make plant-based products exciting for shoppers,” says Parker Brody, senior global category merchant for plant-based at Whole Foods Market.
Want to know what the top plant-based trends are going to be this year? Take a peek at what Whole Foods says.
Alternative cheeses: Yes, it’s true. Cheese will get their own plant-based, dairy-free twists. Looks like there will be more bites using nut-based milks and ingredients like black garlic truffle, dill Havarti and chive to add to your picnic baskets and cheese boards this summer.
Barbecue Goes Plant-Based: Think plant-based products like hot dogs, Italian-style sausages and even jackfruit BBQ on the grill this year. From algae-based casing to hickory smoke concentrate, these vegetarian options have unique ingredients making it easy (and flavorful) to incorporate more plants into cookouts.
Plant Food For Little Ones: For the littlest of eaters, brands are providing plant-forward options that come in kid-approved forms like nuggets, yogurt tubes and ice pops. Every parent has had their prayers answered.
Fish Goes Plant-Based: This may sound weird, but it’s happening. Ingredients like legumes and banana blossoms are being used to mimic the flaky texture of the real thing. This means alternative fish sticks, no-tuna sandwiches and a whole new depth of flavor in an otherwise simple fish dinner.
Dairy-Free Dips: Say “so long” to dips made with cream cheeses, cottage cheese and other cheesy ingredients. Dairy-free dipping alternatives using cashew milk and other nut-based milks will make a splash this summer.
