Today, people are looking for more convenient and natural ways to maintain or enhance their health. As a result, many restaurants and food-joints have started focusing on offering organic food and drinks to its consumers. The popularity of functional food has resulted in the improvement of health of the inhabitants of the US. Today, many eateries offer healthy snacks that are free from artificial ingredients and are highly beneficial for health.
Let's have a look at the top 7 functional food trends across the United States.
Specialty Nutritional
People who earlier used to consume nutritional supplements highly are turning to functional foods gradually. Today, many adults in different parts of the world try to consume more nutrients, minerals, herbs and vitamins. Besides, they make effort to include more fish oil and omega-3s in their diets. To maintain a healthy digestive system and develop more immunity are also included in the top health priorities. Probiotics are highly effective for developing a healthy digestive system.
Get Real
Most of the consumers prefer easily recognizable ingredients that are simple, real and natural. Today, many people choose food that are free from artificial ingredients. Some even prefer to buy organic foods and beverages. Consumers have developed a great preference for food with health benefits and nutrition.
The Protein Evolution
Protein is a highly demanded ingredient among the consumers. From teens to octogenarians, everyone seeks protein source. Protein is highly consumed with a view to maintain healthy bones and joints, as well as for gaining muscle power. Besides, it also helps in strengthening immune system and maintaining energy throughout the day.
Kid-Specific
Almost half of American mothers says that they always buy healthy food and drinks for their kids. They choose a broad assortment of convenient, healthy and kid-friendly food and drinks with nutritional level and calorific values specific to their kids. According to a research, nearly 44% of children below the age of 13 consume herbal food and drinks at least four times in a month.
Performance Nutrition
Performance or sports nutrition are meant specifically for athletes and body builders as well as for gym goers, casual athletes and recreational sports participants. At present, many American adults consume sports nutrition product, supplements, nutrition bars and energy drinks.
Hispanic Health
A large part of the Hispanic population of America concentrates on consuming natural or organic food and beverages. Hispanics have been ranked at the top when it comes to consuming energy drinks, sports beverages and real juice drinks. Moreover, Hispanics have a tendency to consume nutritional product or diet in order to look and feel younger.
Pharma Foods
Majority of the American population believes that functional food is best for the prevention or delay in the onset of hypertension, cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis and type 2 diabetes. While many believe that functional food can prevent age-related memory loss, cancer and Alzheimer's disease. In the last few years, a great number of Americans have started consuming cholesterol-reducing food and beverages.
Apart from the above mentioned functional food trends, there are also other trends like food for weight gaining and losing, and nonalcoholic beverages.
Robin Clark is a seasoned business finance writer who covers varied aspects related to business financing and the challenges faced by small business entrepreneurs. He holds a post graduate degree in business management and is closely associated with the small business industry and start-ups.