Demand for ethnic and international foods continues unabated as American consumers of all backgrounds discover more innovative and exotic flavors and formats. Millennials, in particular, are searching for something different and increasingly focused on specialty and international foods.
Authenticity and traditional flavors are key product attributes, although ongoing interest in health is also driving demand for clean ingredients and free-from options. With the top three cuisines—Italian, Hispanic and Asian—all now regarded as standard in the national diet (rather than ethnic options), interest has turned to other more newly discovered cuisines, more regional options and fusion styles.