Mintel’s Bartelme points out that companies need to be careful with product labeling. A few years back, almost everything was labeled as gluten-free, even water. That kind of labeling can be unnecessary. It’s important for consumers to know what’s in their food, but too many labels can backfire. When products are labeled for every trendy diet, it can make some people skeptical. For instance, if a food is tagged as suitable for weight loss drugs like GLP-1, some might think it tastes bland or is just another “diet” food.
Despite the noise around wellness trends, food continues to be a major comfort in our lives. In today’s fast-paced world, people are feeling tired and anxious. Bartelme suggests that many are easing their food expectations in response to this stress. Instead of sticking to strict meal schedules, snacking throughout the day has become more common. For example, McDonald’s highlighted the idea of pairing iced coffee and fries as a snack. Concepts like “girl dinner,” which refers to a casual mix of snack-like foods for dinner, show how people find joy in simple meals without worrying about perfection.
This shift has led to a rise in what some call “unserious” food and drink. Jennifer Creevy from WGSN notes that this trend reflects a desire for fun and lightheartedness to combat anxiety. Consumers are looking for comfort and nostalgia, which translates into playful textures, bold colors, and creative combinations. It’s all about enjoying food without the weight of stress and perfectionism.
Desserts and drinks are also embracing this playful spirit. One emerging trend is “chaos cakes,” where the focus is on fun designs rather than perfect appearance. Another trend, “surreal soirées,” emphasizes creative table settings with maximalist aesthetics. Pinterest has noted a 55% increase in searches for “surrealist tablescapes,” showing that people are excited about mixing creativity with their food experiences.
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