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These themes characterize the food sector in 2021
There is not a sector in the world that was not under the spell of corona last year. The food chain has also been hit hard, partly by the closure of the restaurants. In 2021 we will not go back to the 'old' situation, it is expected. The pandemic has led many consumers to look for a new lifestyle. Which aspects characterize the food sector in 2021?
Although the first vaccinations against corona have now been administered, it is expected that the food sector will still be under the spell of the corona pandemic in the coming months. The 'renewed demand' from consumers is also reportedly a lasting change. This means that many companies in the food chain, for example, have to focus more and more on the production of healthy food. After all, consumers have come to attach more and more value to this.
Health increasingly important
As a result of the corona crisis, many consumers paid more attention and time last year to improving the resistance and a healthier lifestyle. Recent research shows that 6 out of 10 consumers worldwide have actively started using this in the past year. According to experts, that change is permanent. For many companies in the food sector, it requires considerable adaptability. After all, more emphasis had to be placed on the immune-boosting ingredients, such as elderberries, turmeric and chicory. Also cooperative FrieslandCampina expects health to remain an important trend among consumers in 2021.
A trend that fits well with this is the growth in the plant-based diet. Although the sales figures for the year 2020 are not yet known, a record level is expected. Analysts forecast sales of plant-based dairy products and eggs alone to reach $4,3 billion, an annual growth rate of 6%. The sale of meat substitutes would have increased by 129% up to and including September compared to the first 9 months of 2019. The growth of plant-based foods is expected to continue in 2021, although the figures will then be less spectacular.
Convenience will also remain an important theme in 2021. Earlier this month For example, research by the FoodService Institute Netherlands has already shown that the total delivery market has grown by 2020% in 43,1. Last year, a lot of groceries were ordered. The 'grocery delivery' category grew to €2,69 billion: +49% compared to the previous year. Meal delivery grew by 37% to €2,75 billion. Growth is also expected in these foodservice segments this year.
Where does my food come from?
It is not only the nutritional values of food that have become more important for consumers, but the origin of food is also a factor in the purchasing process. For example, 6 out of 10 consumers worldwide indicate that they want to know more about the origin of food. The safety of products also plays an important role in this. Many new technologies can contribute to this, according to several experts, and the use of technology is reported to take major steps in 2021.
An example of this is the digital expiration date label that provides live quality monitoring. In addition to these smart packaging solutions, more and more food producers are focusing on blockchain. This allows consumers to follow the product 'from farm to table'. A technology such as genetic modification will also remain important in 2021, among other things to improve taste, texture and the production process.
Kimberly Baker
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