Staying ahead of the curve in the food and beverage world can feel like chasing a runaway taco, with new trends popping up overnight. That’s where Ai Palette comes in, sifting through mountains of data—from sizzling TikTok trends to Google’s hottest recipe searches—to decode the buzz behind the latest food crazes. Remember the hot honey trend? We called it two years ago, and now it’s everywhere. This May, we’re diving into the top five trends set to tantalize taste buds and shake up the food and beverage scene. We’ll uncover what these trends are, how they’re evolving, what’s already hit the market, and how consumers are reacting. Plus, we’ll share our unique take on each trend, giving you the edge you need to turn these culinary goldmines into your next big success. Get ready to embark on a delicious journey through the future of food and beverage!
Trend 1: Tanghulu
Hailing from Northern China, Tanghulu (or bingtang hulu) is a delightful street food with a history as rich as its flavor. These vibrant treats take shape when plump Chinese hawthorn berries are transformed into glistening spheres with a rock sugar coating. Skewered on bamboo sticks, they resemble miniature calabashes, a symbol of good fortune in Chinese culture. Each bite offers a delightful contrast of sweet and tart, making Tanghulu a beloved treat for both young and old, packing a satisfying 200 kcal punch.
Want to see all the data behind this trend, access the detailed report here.
Trend 2: Sproud Milk
Made from sustainable yellow split peas, this eco-friendly choice boasts a low sugar content and high protein punch, making it a delicious and versatile addition to your coffee, smoothies, or cereal. Plus, its lower environmental footprint compared to many dairy alternatives lets you feel good about going green while indulging your taste buds.
Want to see all the data behind this trend, access the detailed report here.
Trend 3: Celtic Salt
Found in the Brittany tides, Celtic salt (or French grey salt) isn’t just a location, it’s a taste sensation. While its harvesting methods have spread beyond its French origins, the essence remains the same: harnessing the power of the sun to transform seawater into nutrient-rich crystals. These precious flakes boast a coarse, moist texture with a hint of grey, reflecting the clay beds where they gather.
Want to see all the data behind this trend, access the detailed report here.
Trend 4: Tajin
Born in Mexico, but loved worldwide, Tajín is a flavor fiesta in a bottle! In 1985, Horacio Fernández dreamt up this unique blend of fiery chilies, tangy lime, and sea salt, forever changing the way we experience food. This versatile powerhouse adds a burst of Mexican sunshine to everything from fruit and veggies to meats and snacks. More than just a seasoning, Tajín is a global phenomenon, a testament to the magic that happens when bold flavors collide.
Want to see all the data behind this trend, access the detailed report here.
Trend 5: Microdose Coffee
Microdose coffee refers to the practice of consuming very small amounts of caffeine throughout the day instead of having a large cup or multiple cups in the morning. Typically, a microdose is around 20-50mg of caffeine, which is significantly less than a standard cup of coffee (usually around 80-100mg).
Want to see all the data behind this trend, access the detailed report here.
Conclusion
This report explores five key food and beverage trends for May 2024: the sweet allure of Tanghulu, health-focused Sproud milk, premium Celtic salt, bold Tajín flavors, and data-driven microdose coffee. These trends cater to diverse tastes and preferences. Leveraging AI-powered analytics, brands can capitalize on these opportunities and stay ahead in the evolving F&B landscape. Stay tuned for monthly insights into the ever-changing world of food and beverage. The trends are here—what are you waiting for?
