NYC Boutique PR Agency Highlights 2021 Food Trends

 

The food industry has embraced novel ways of doing business and even pivoted their business model during an era of social distancing, lock downs and reduced capacities at food establishments. Individual packaged meals, salads and cupcakes will enable friends, families and colleagues to gather safely indoors to celebrate birthdays, anniversaries and other milestone events.

Research shows "online grocery sales tripled during the early part of the COVID-19 pandemic as food retailers ramped up an already growing ecommerce business." (Source:  The Food Industry Association.)  The online grocery sales are forecasted to grow this year as we emerge from the corona virus epidemic.

Allen Marketing Communications, inc., a boutique food and beverage public relations agency, stays of abreast of current industry trends.  Here's what's trending in the food industry for 2021.

The corona virus epidemic inspired many individuals to eat healthier and to incorporate food items to boost one's immunity naturally.  Plant-based foods will continue to be all the rave in 2021 as more individuals experiment a vegan lifestyle and to reap the health benefits for incorporating plant-based items into our diet.

Research shows a vegan diet is rich in nutrients derived from whole grains, fruits, vegetables, beans, peas, nuts and seeds.  A vegan diet has been shown to reduce blood sugar level for those suffering with diabetes, as well as helps to reduce the risks for heart disease, breast, prostate and colon cancers.

Plant-based milk - oat milk, almond milk, soy milk and pea milk -- have exploded during recent years. In fact, vegan meat alternatives are appearing on menus for some fast food restaurants and there is even talk about a plant-based fish entering the food market. 

Zoom calls have become the new normal during this COVID-19 pandemic.  Food enthusiasts will continue to embrace virtual cooking classes with celebrity chefs or with local restaurateurs.. 

Food lovers are experimenting with exotic spices to add a new twists to favorite food items.  Also, aspiring chefs will also explore making homemade pasta as we emerge from this epidemic.

Take and bake meal kits are a novel way for restaurant owners to pivot, stay afloat and generate an income during a period of reduced indoor dining capacity and take-out restrictions on the restaurant industry.  Basically, restaurants provide customers with pre-packaged and pre-made meal kits and the customer just needs to bake the items at home and then serve.

During this corona virus epidemic, Tik Tok is emerging as an influential social media platform for socially conscious consumers to engage and connect with small businesses and restaurant owners.  Tik Tok presents a platform for consumers to get to know the faces behind the brands through innovative, behind the scenes videos.

“It’s important to establish a connection with a business, its owners, and its team, especially during these tough times. Consumers want to support small and local businesses to keep their communities intact, as those businesses are the hardest hit during COVID-19 shutdowns and restrictions," according to Real Simple.

Instagram and Facebook are very important to build brand loyal customers.  It is important to post two to three times or more a week to engage first time and repeat customers. It is important to post content as it pertains to your brand's CDC health protocols.

Our food and beverage public relations professionals are here to help.  Give us a call.

By Joanna Allen, chief executive officer, Allen Marketing Communications, Inc.

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