More than before, consumers are seeking out products which appeal to personal aesthetics and reflect their unique values, ADM reports.
Ingredient supplier ADM has revealed the four leading trends that it is forecasting for flavors and colors in 2024. Self-expression and individual wellness goals are top of mind for consumers across the globe, and ADM has highlighted for major trends to illustrate how consumer behavior is evolving.
“Color trends, and corresponding flavors, in foods and beverages provide unique insights into the human condition, revealing how we are responding and adapting to macro forces far beyond the table,” said Hélène Moeller, vice president of global product marketing for flavors and colors at ADM. “From focusing on well-being for themselves and the planet, compounded by concerns for affordability, the color and flavor trends we identified in this report indicate what foods and beverages consumers will reach for on product shelves.”
“Color is at the epicenter of food, fashion, and the content the world consumers,” said Moeller. “We also know that flavor trends are dynamic, affected by cultural events, viral social media phenomena, and emerging consumer tastes.”
Luxe Self-Expression
The trend “Luxe Self-Expression” describes a desire for fully-flavored and vibrantly-colored foods and beverages. Consumers want sensational encounters which rival digital expression, and luxurious indulgences that reflect personalized desired, through products with maximum impact, ADM reports.
Desire for economical products which can credibly replicate consumers’ beloved products is expanding beyond fashion and personal care and into the food and beverage segment. Brilliant color mimicry and flavor authenticity offer visual and taste experiences that go beyond the norm to deliver on consumer expectations for natural ingredients, authentic regional cuisines, and convincing alternative formulas.
Health Without Stealth
According to ADM, flavors and colors are cues to support product positioning via association. Consumers are seeking out functional foods and beverages that support holistic helaht, from relaxation to hydration, and both mental and physical wellness. These benefits need to be presented without sacrifice to the sensory experience, as consumers view better-for-you products as the norm rather than the exception.
Breaking Boundaries of Taste and Color
Yesterday’s uncommon experiences are today’s favorites, and tomorrow’s mainstream staples, reports ADM. Consumers want vivid food and beverage creations that bring hyperlocal flavors to the global scale, and dazzling rainbow hues which reflect colorful ingredients derived from nature.
