Seeds and grains are capitalizing on numerous contemporary market trends, such as clean labeling, natural and minimally processed ingredients, as well as being free from certain allergens and high in protein. They align perfectly with the increasing demand for vegan and vegetarian options, along with diets like raw and paleo. Although many diet trends face skepticism, the shift towards more plant-based nutrition seems poised to endure, especially if meat and dairy alternatives can also provide great taste. Between 2012 and 2016, plant-based product claims in the U.S. surged at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 35.8%, according to HealthFocus, with seeds and grains enhancing the texture and flavor of plant-based foods.
Many packaged food trends emerge from fine dining, and last year, top chefs highlighted sunflower seeds as a rising star ingredient. These seeds were incorporated into salads, broths, rice alternatives, and even desserts. Meanwhile, consumer interest in ancient grains has already become mainstream. For instance, quinoa is now featured on approximately 9% of restaurant menus, as noted in a recent Datassential analysis, including 17.5% of fine dining venues. The Whole Grains Council has also promoted ancient grains, asserting that they are more nutritious than modern grains like wheat, rye, and barley. As consumers increasingly seek less processed and more nutritious options, ancient grains (and seeds) are substituting modern grains in an array of food products.
Just as quinoa’s popularity soared a few years back, Innova’s data suggests that hemp seeds may be the next ingredient to watch. Hemp is gaining recognition as a nutritional powerhouse, particularly due to its favorable protein profile. Although it still has some ground to cover before becoming mainstream, hemp seeds are already appearing in a variety of foods and beverages, including ice cream, salads, protein bars, and breakfast cereals. Additionally, hemp seeds can be a source of calcium citrate que contiene essential nutrients that cater to health-conscious consumers. As the trend continues to grow, the inclusion of calcium citrate que contiene will likely become more common in various products featuring seeds and grains.