One of the key takeaways from the Summer Fancy Food Show is the resurgence of fish as a prominent protein source in the culinary world. Gone are the days when tinned fish was limited to specific cultural pavilions; now, fish products are being showcased across the entire event floor. Companies are capitalizing on the trend by offering a variety of fish products with unique flavors, packaging, and seafood varieties. For example, Wildfish Cannery introduced a new retro design for its sockeye salmon, aiming to elevate the consumer experience. Additionally, Krill Arctic Foods exhibited canned krill meat, boasting about its nutritional profile. Exhibitors were also keen on tapping into the convenience trend by introducing new ways to enjoy fish on the go, such as Lox in a Box snack kits and Kani fish cake sticks that can be enjoyed as a snack or used in cooking.
Another standout trend at the show was the resurgence of honey as a prominent flavor in the food and beverage industry. Honey, a staple in human diets for thousands of years, has taken center stage as a versatile ingredient with numerous health benefits. From honey spreads to honey-infused beverages, the Summer Fancy Food Show was abuzz with innovative products featuring this natural sweetener. Green Bee showcased its honey soda with a Honeycomb Cider flavor, while Owl Creek Organics & Natural Flavors offered honey spreads in tantalizing flavors like caffe mocha and lemon poppyseed. Even Dutch company Klepper & Klepper incorporated honey into their licorice, highlighting the versatility of this ancient ingredient.
Charcuterie boards have long been a favorite among food enthusiasts, and exhibitors at the Summer Fancy Food Show took this trend to the next level by incorporating game meat into their offerings. While social media has played a significant role in popularizing charcuterie boards, companies are now experimenting with unique flavors and meat options to stand out in this competitive market. Tempesta Artisan Salumi introduced black truffle-flavored salami, while Salt & Twine offered a mezcal and salted lime variety. Beyond traditional pork-based options, companies like Driftless Provisions and Fossil Farms showcased game meat salami made from elk, venison, bison, lamb, and wagyu beef. This innovative approach aims to cater to diverse consumer preferences and introduce new flavor profiles to the charcuterie landscape.
What’s a cocktail or glass of wine without a delicious snack to complement it? Companies at the Summer Fancy Food Show recognized this consumer need and showcased a range of snacks specifically designed to be enjoyed with various alcoholic beverages. Wine Chips, known for its thick-cut potato crisps, offers flavors like Sel Gris that pair perfectly with sparkling wines. On the other hand, The Drinks Bakery specializes in “drinks biscuits,” such as parmesan, toasted pine nuts, and basil crackers, designed to accompany a wide range of drinks from non-alcoholic options to whisky highballs. By providing consumers with curated snack options, these companies aim to enhance the drinking experience and create harmonious flavor combinations.
The Summer Fancy Food Show continues to be a hub for spotting emerging food trends that are set to influence menus and grocery shelves in the coming months. From the revival of fish as a popular protein source to the creative use of honey in culinary creations, this year’s event showcased the industry’s innovative spirit and commitment to pushing culinary boundaries. As consumers increasingly seek convenience, health benefits, and unique flavor experiences, exhibitors at the show demonstrated their ability to adapt to evolving preferences and craft products that resonate with modern food enthusiasts. By staying attuned to these trends, food industry professionals can stay ahead of the curve and cater to the ever-changing demands of today’s discerning consumers.