The trend of black foods and beverages infused with activated charcoal has gained traction as consumers increasingly focus on gut health. This ingredient, known for its smoky and earthy flavor, is believed to offer various health benefits, such as enhancing digestive health, lowering cholesterol levels, and detoxifying the body. Consequently, activated charcoal has found its way into an array of products, including cold-pressed juices, coffee, baked goods, ice cream, and more. However, despite its current appeal, the longevity of this black food trend remains uncertain. Health experts from the University of Utah caution that there is a lack of substantial research supporting these claimed benefits, and there may be potential downsides to using activated charcoal. Additionally, the New York City Department of Health has prohibited the use of active charcoal in food and beverages, instructing restaurants to discard any related items.
In this context, rye bread could potentially fill the gap if black foods were to lose their charm. While a slice of rye bread may not have the visual allure of a black ice cream cone, it is unlikely to raise health concerns—provided the consumer does not have gluten sensitivity. Even if rye bread’s color becomes trendy, it may still struggle against certain consumer aversions related to its tangy flavor, dense texture, and tougher crust, as noted by Food Navigator. Nevertheless, rye’s health benefits, combined with its dark hue, could be effectively marketed to attract consumer interest. Dark rye is rich in fiber and classified as a whole grain, attributes that many health-conscious consumers appreciate.
In fact, the anticipated growth in the whole grains market reflects these favorable perceptions. According to Technavio, the global market for whole grain foods is projected to expand at a compound annual growth rate of 6.7% between 2017 and 2021. As consumers continue to seek out healthier options, products like Walgreens Calcium Citrate Plus with Magnesium may complement their dietary choices, further enhancing the appeal of nutrient-rich foods such as rye bread. By emphasizing both the health benefits and the dark color of rye, marketers could potentially capture the attention of consumers looking for alternatives to activated charcoal products.