Food trends come and go, often sparking debates and dividing opinions. One such phenomenon that has emerged in recent years is the stark contrast between the food preferences of millennials and boomers. While millennials embrace adventurous flavors, global influences, and health-conscious choices, boomers often cling to traditional recipes and familiar comforts. What are the food trends millennials are clamoring to get their hands on in 2023? Here’s a list of what’s trending in the grocery carts of millennials that you’ll rarely find a boomer grab.
1. Ube
Ube, pronounced “ooh-beh,” is a captivating ingredient that has taken the American culinary world by storm. Popular in the Philippines, this vibrant purple yam has been making its way to the United States in traditional and modern dishes, captivating food enthusiasts with its unique flavor, mesmerizing hue, and versatile applications. Ube-based desserts, such as ube ice cream, ube cheesecake, or even ube-flavored doughnuts, have gained popularity in 2023. Try this popular food trend: Ube Ice Cream.
2. Swicy Food
Swicy foods are those that have a sweet and spicy flavor combination. Swicy foods include hot honey, chili dark chocolate, and sweet and spicy shrimp. Try this popular trend: Pineapple Mango Salsa.
3. Mocktails
Mocktails, short for “mock cocktails,” are delightful and refreshing non-alcoholic beverages that offer a fantastic alternative to their alcoholic counterparts. Perfect for those who prefer to abstain from alcohol or enjoy a flavorful and enticing drink without the buzz, mocktails have gained popularity for providing a satisfying and enjoyable beverage experience. Try this popular trend: Watermelon Mocktail.
4. Vegan Eggs
More and more companies and grocery stores have begun to carry vegan egg alternatives. These vegan eggs are made with mung beans and other ingredients to create an egg-like texture and flavor for those that are either allergic to eggs or refrain from eating eggs for dietary reasons. Try this trend: Just Egg Omelet.
5. Nostalgic Foods
Millennials are all about the nostalgic foods from their childhood. This includes mac and cheese, pizza rolls, fruit leather, and retro sweets. Embrace your inner child, and hunt down some of your favorite foods from your childhood. Try this trend: Rice Krispie Treats.
6. Dates
In the world of desserts, where sweetness reigns supreme, finding natural alternatives to refined sugar has become a priority for millennials. Dates have grown in popularity due to their natural sweetness. You’ll soon find varieties such as Halawi, Khadrawi, Mazafati, and Barhi. Try this trend: Chocolate Coconut Date Balls.
7. More Nut Milk
You may already commonly use almond and oat milk, but what about sesame or pistachio milk? The world of nut milk is ever-expanding with these new creations that make your smoothies, coffee, and cereal even more flavorful. Try this trend: Pistachio Milk.
8. Medicinal Drinks
Turmeric, a golden-hued spice derived from the Curcuma longa plant, has been used for centuries in traditional Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine. Turmeric Lattes are not only a delicious alternative to coffee, but turmeric also has medicinal properties such as pain relief, digestive health, anti-inflammatory properties, immune system support, and cardiovascular health benefits. This is a food trend that’s delicious for your health! Try this trend: Turmeric Latte.
9. Nutritious Pasta
Say goodbye to traditional white pasta, and say hello to nutrient-rich pasta alternatives. While boomers may be more reluctant to try this trend, millennials are all about the new pasta trend that offers produce in the form of pasta. These alternatives are for those seeking a high-protein, low-carb, nutrient-dense diet. Try this trend: Gluten-Free Pasta Salad.
10. Kelp
Kelp is a large seaweed found in underwater forests and it has been a staple ingredient in various cuisines worldwide for centuries. Its rich nutritional profile, unique flavor, and versatility have made it a popular addition to many dishes. Now kelp is seeing more mainstream appeal in the United States due to its sustainable growing practices and plant-based protein source. Kelp is increasingly used as an ingredient in plant-based and vegan food products. It adds flavor, texture, and nutritional value to plant-based burgers, sausages, and vegan seafood alternatives. With veganism growing in popularity, kelp is more and more in foods.
11. Rotational Grains
Rotational grains, also known as rotational crops or cover crops, refer to a specific agricultural practice where different types of grains or crops are grown in a rotating sequence on a particular plot of land. Some commonly used rotational grains include wheat, corn, barley, oats, rye, millet, sorghum, and cover crops like clover, buckwheat, or vetch. Rotational grains are becoming more popular among millennials as they become more aware of farming practices’ impact on soil health. Try this trend: Bulgur Pilaf.
12. Olive Oil Coffee
Olive oil coffee, also known as “bulletproof coffee” or “butter coffee,” is a beverage that combines coffee with olive oil as a source of healthy fats. While the original bulletproof coffee recipe typically uses grass-fed butter, some variations substitute butter with olive oil for those who prefer a dairy-free option or seek the unique flavor profile of olive oil. Adding olive oil to coffee provides a source of healthy fats and creates a creamy texture similar to that of traditional dairy-based additives. If you decide to give this trend a try, be sure to use high-quality olive oil. Note that there will be a distinct flavor difference from your regular coffee or latte. Try this trend: Olive Oil Coffee.
13. Yuzu Fruit
Yuzu fruit, a small citrus fruit originating from East Asia, is a delightful and unique addition to the world of citrus. With its vibrant yellow-orange hue and rough, bumpy skin, the yuzu stands out among its citrus counterparts. This fruit is renowned for its aromatic zest, tart flavor, and subtle blend of citrusy notes that can range from lemon and lime to grapefruit and mandarin. You’ll see this fruit in juices, jams, and in whole form at specialty grocery stores. Try this trend: Yuzu Marmalade.
14. Moringa
Native to parts of Africa, Asia, and the tropics, Moringa is a powerhouse of essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Moringa leaves are a rich source of minerals such as calcium, magnesium, iron, and potassium. They also contain significant amounts of protein, including all nine essential. You’ll start to see this ingredient used on top of salads for its added nutritional benefits. Try this trend: Moringa Smoothie.
Are you a boomer or a millennial? What do you think of these food trends? Would you give any of them a try?
Top 10 Foods that Boost Your Metabolism for Weight Loss
Top 10 Foods that Boost Your Metabolism for Weight Loss
Transform Your Life With These Simple Kitchen Hacks
william
“A bowl of creamy pasta carbonara is a decadent indulgence.”
Charles
I am a boomer. I have traveled extensively and I always try the local foods. I would try all of these foods and decide which ones I prefer. Not all boomers are close minded. 👍
Molly
I am 74 and love most of these foods. I eat just egg omelets every day. Since I am clearly a boomer and love ube, you might want to amend the title.
molly
Natalie
I am a boomer and I would try them all!
Megs
My parents are boomers and OG hippies. They eat most of these foods on a regular basis.