WGSN Food & Drink confirms the Top Trends for 2022 and Beyond

WGSN, a global trend forecasting authority, has announced six Food & Drink Top Trends for 2022, shaped by sustainability and consumer drivers. The trends include: climate-hero kelp, post-Arabica coffee, jollof rice, baijiu, koji and prebiotics. Kelp is a fast-growing seaweed with versatile applications and excellent nutritional profiles that permanently removes carbon dioxide from the environment. Post-Arabica coffee will become more widely available as new wild and rediscovered heirloom species are cultivated. Jollof rice will make its way around the world in new packaged goods, including frozen meals, seasoning kits and grain sides. Baijiu, a Chinese liquor, is gaining popularity among drinkers worldwide. Koji, Japan’s ‘national fungus,’ brings forth the fifth taste, umami, and will step into the spotlight in 2022, appearing in plant-based meats and historic Japanese whisky. Prebiotic boosts are appearing in various foods, including the next-gen sodas that feed good bacteria in the gut, promoting a healthy immune system. Food makers and developers must address these issues while being mindful of consumer demands regarding diversity, inclusivity and sustainability.