The coronavirus pandemic changed life as we know it. While many of the changes were not for the better, the silver lining is this: some good has come from our new ways of life. Take food, for example. People today are cooking at home more than ever.
“Last year, we saw tremendous pandemic-related shifts in grocery buying habits as the world adjusted to spending more time at home,” said Sonya Gafsi Oblisk, chief marketing officer at Whole Foods Market.
With a shift towards eating at home more often comes the opportunity to eat healthier foods and in more approachable portions. Here are five healthy food trends you’ll see extend out from our pandemic past and into the future, as we seek out tasty and feel-good foods to help us reach our wellness goals in 2022.
Mocktails
The deal is, cutting back or getting rid of alcohol is good for your health, and it doesn’t have to be boring. New non-alcoholic or zero-proof options feel just as indulgent as the real thing.
“The dialed-down spirits category experienced record growth in our stores this year. With millennials and Gen Z-ers dabbling in ‘drysolation’ during the pandemic, we don’t see the sober-curious mindset going away anytime soon,” Whole Foods said in a media release.
Reducetarianism
Not quite ready to go completely vegan or vegetarian? Reducetarianism may be a good fit for you because it focuses on gradually reducing your consumption of animal products in order to help the environment and your health. For those making the leap, there are a plethora of plant-based products to help fill animal product and byproduct gaps, from new plant-based cheeses to elevated hummus, boosted beans, and beyond.
“Many reducetarians also will prioritize eating grass-fed meat and pasture-raised eggs when they do opt for animal products,” according to Whole Foods.
Fruity vinegars
Apple cider vinegar, the original fruit vinegar, has seen a surge in popularity as a health tonic in recent years. It has appeared in beverages, as well as gummy supplements and capsules, and has been promoted for its ability to aid in weight loss and blood sugar stabilization.
“Now that consumers are familiar with the concept of using vinegar as an ingredient, we’re seeing more fruity options on the market,” Frances Largeman-Roth, RDN, told TODAY.
Hibiscus flavors
Hibiscus tea has a long and delicious history in the world, and customers have traditionally kept it in rotations because of its high vitamin C content.
According to Whole Foods, “Now, producers are harnessing its sweet, tart flavor in the form of fruit spreads, yogurts and beyond. Of course, beverage makers are keeping up, leaning on hibiscus to craft delicious drinks that adopt its signature hot-pink hue.”
Brain supporting foods
There is no single all-powerful brain food that can guarantee a sharp mind as you age, but a good strategy to follow is a healthy dietary pattern that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, legumes and whole grains.
“An aging population means that Alzheimer’s numbers will continue rising, and since diet makes an impact, expect to see more brain foods on the horizon,” said Largeman-Roth.
Memore, a powdered supplement with plant-based ingredients that support the brain, has recently hit the market.
“The idea is that since Americans aren’t getting enough of these nutrient-packed foods into their daily diets, a powder — which can be added to smoothies or stirred into a glass of water — is a more efficient way for us to get the benefits of these foods,” Largeman-Roth stated.
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