This Holiday season is what we have all been looking forward to; something different from the dreadful pandemic and to celebrate with people we love. When preparing a Christmas feast, many people are willing to indulge and treat themselves well. This explains why the food and beverage industry account for approximately 40% of the family expenditure during the Holidays. Recently, the world has shifted to a new paradigm, and there have been changes to Christmas food traditions. Let’s look at some new food trends and find out what people might be serving on their dinner tables!

Whether it’s for environmental reasons or health concerns, adapting to a plant-based diet has recently transitioned from a niche concept to a mainstream trend. According to an industry analysis and forecaster, the plant-based food market was valued at $37.49 billion US dollars in 2021, and the total revenue is expected to grow at 12.4% and will reach $95.52 billion dollars by 2029. This movement trending away from meat consumption has drastically altered many holiday menus. The United Kingdom, the United States, and Germany, are the countries that most people celebrate Christmas across the World. According to a survey conducted by Deliveroo, a delivery platform in the UK found that 20% of the people will not have meat over the Christmas holidays; and more than 55% of the consumers are willing to prepare meatless dishes for their vegetarian or vegan family and friends. According to a YouGov poll, a vegetarian roast has become the most popular option behind turkey and chicken during the holidays. On top of that, plant-based cheeses, ready-to-eat meals, mock seafood, and egg alternatives have all gained greater consumer interest. More and more fast-food chains, and bakeries have also joined the movement, and there is a rising popularity of vegan cakes and plant-based milks on the market.

Many traditional Christmas dishes do not seem to appeal to the younger generation. In British traditions, a Christmas would not be complete without a Christmas pudding; but according to a Christmas trend report the sales of this iconic dessert have dramatically dropped. Approximately 44% of consumers planned to have a Christmas pudding in 2020, and the number has decreased to 28% in 2021. And only about 8% of the young people from the age of 18 to 34 years old follow this tradition. The Gen Z consumers reportedly would rather have chocolate desserts, cheesecakes, or ice-cream with interesting flavor combinations such chocolate orange, salted caramel, and toasted nuts. They all seem to enjoy something new and innovative.

This does not mean the end of traditional desserts, but classic recipes have the potential to be deconstructed into different and original creations, such as dishes that are fused with different cultural influences and exotic flavors. Imagine the classic roasted turkey and cranberry sauce served in a Crepe or made into Spring Rolls. Other options might include use the same combination but fill it into Filo pastry, or possibly topped on a Pizza crust to create something fun and easy to share. Different spices can also be incorporated to reinvent a dish with surprising flavors. These include Meatballs stewed in a ginger and lemongrass sauce with an Asian flair or turning mashed potatoes into Samosas. A little creativity with a combination of different cultural experiences can make Christmas more interesting and memorable.

Food is often the centerpiece of a festive celebration, especially during Christmas time. People usually prefer to prepare food items that are easy to eat, easy to share, and that keep well in a refrigerator. In today’s Globalized World, a mix and match between different cultures can bring pleasant culinary surprises. Pairing bubbly cocktails with Cheese Puffs, Crackers, and toasted nuts is an example; and a glass of Champagne can be enjoyed with chocolate desserts or served with a savory nori and sesame snack. Another popular option includes wasabi peas, or non-dairy nut cheeses for vegans and vegetarians.

Other than cookies and cakes, “Finger Foods” are always appreciated at a party; such as different kinds of dumplings like Potstickers, Gyoza or Tortellini. Spring Rolls and “Cigar Rolls” are also very popular, and they can be made sweet or savory; baked or deep-fried and served with a dipping sauce. All these simple foods can be upgraded with creativity and luxurious ingredients to satisfy specific tastes and impress guests.

If you are interested in any of the food items mentioned above or would like to design and create new food traditions and products. Please feel free to contact ANKO, we can provide you with more information about our automated food machines and assist you with new food product development.