Not only are consumers trending toward foods that are functional, they also are demanding foods that are natural or organic, vegetarian and vegan products, low-fat and low-calorie items. The rise in obesity has been accompanied by issues such as rising blood pressure, so expect to see a spike in low-sodium foods. The number of children with allergies also is increasing, prompting vigorous interest in gluten-free, dairy-free and allergy-sensitive foods.
Feeling healthy is tied into weight and energy management, and sticking to a regular exercise regimen appears difficult for too many Americans. To the rescue are ingredients such as alternative sweeteners that help reduce the number of calories in a food or beverage, fiber to help with satiety and proteins that help give energy without the sluggishness of carbohydrates.