New Wave of Boomer Functional Foods Predicted

Packaged Facts and The Center for Culinary Development have released the newest study in the Culinary Trend Mapping collection, “Emerging Health and Wellness Culinary Trend Mapping Report.”

According to the report, manufacturers will soon offer American consumers new food products that move beyond addressing health concerns to those that improve their mood, firm their skin, sharpen their smarts and more. The next wave of functional food and beverage trends speak to aging boomers, anxious to maintain a youthful appearance and healthy body, as well as to younger generations hoping to feel and look their best.

“What better way to reach consumers than through something that tastes good, while speaking to our deepest need to take control of our own health and happiness,” says Kimberly Egan, CEO, Center for Culinary Development.

The report charts global wellness trends that target niche functions like fending off facial wrinkles and increasing satiety. Unique ingredients, like collagen, amino acids such as GABA, newly developed fibers, and even age-old herbs like ginseng, are transforming familiar foods into powerhouse wellness products. Juices, smoothies, soups, marshmallows and even frozen vegetables are getting a makeover so we can, too.

Trends range from more natural, like “nutrition by color,” to more scientific, such as brain-enhancing foods fortified with specific nutrients geared toward optimal performance. Others, like immunity foods, offer more health-related benefits, while mood foods, for example, seek to improve our day, notes the report.