As Christmas 2023 approaches, supermarkets reveal the year’s top food and drink trends.
- There is a strong emphasis on vegan and plant-based options across various retailers.
- Social media has significantly influenced food trends, particularly with graze and charcuterie boards.
- Traditional Christmas fare sees innovative twists with new flavors and centerpieces.
- No and low alcohol beverages are becoming increasingly popular among consumers.
As the festive season of 2023 arrives, supermarkets are setting the stage with a diverse array of food and drink trends. Notably, there is a marked increase in vegan and plant-based offerings. Despite challenges within the vegan food sector, retailers like Waitrose report that interest in plant-based options has surged, with search increases of 115% on their website. Waitrose’s selections include a triple nut roast and plant-based wellington, indicating the burgeoning demand for vegan items. Tesco also joins with over 100 Plant Chef and Free From products, featuring centerpieces like a mushroom festive wreath. Asda rounds out these offerings with its Vegan Society approved line, including a substantial ‘no turkey.’
The impact of social media on food trends is undeniable, with graze boards gaining a tremendous following. Platforms such as TikTok showcase hashtags like #bringaboardnight, garnering millions of views. Consequently, supermarkets are incorporating these trends into their holiday selections. Asda introduces an Extra Special Specialty Cheeseboard, while Tesco offers a Build Your Own Christmas Olive Tree, showcasing a modern twist to traditional platters with unique flavors like pomegranate wensleydale.
Turkey continues to hold its place as a Christmas staple, yet supermarkets are introducing novel twists to conventional dishes. Tesco, for example, presents over 40 turkey options along with innovative dishes like a pigs in blankets topped steak pie. Waitrose focuses on seafood with its Shimmering Salmon Mousse, reflecting a move towards reducing food waste with sustainably sourced ingredients. Asda opts for inclusivity with varied centerpieces including Monkfish Tails wrapped in prosciutto.
With increasing awareness of health and wellness, no and low alcohol beverages are experiencing a surge in popularity, according to retailers like Waitrose. Sales in this category have grown by 20%, reflecting a broader consumer trend towards moderation. The Co-op supports this shift with new launches of alcohol-free wines, suggesting a change in consumer preferences during the holidays.
Supermarkets are also enhancing dessert offerings in line with the ‘showstopper’ trend, aiming to provide memorable dining experiences. Asda’s chocolate and honeycomb avalanche dessert fills this niche, while Waitrose offers a Golden Bûche de Noël among other confections. These indulgent options highlight a creative approach to traditional holiday desserts, intended to captivate and delight consumers.
Supermarkets are redefining Christmas culinary traditions with diverse, health-conscious, and socially influenced trends.
