Cargill has released its latest proprietary TrendTracker study, sharing insight into global macro trends at the 26th Food Ingredients China, held in Shanghai.
With forward-looking market insights and a deep understanding of its customers, Cargill also showcased more than 40 products and solutions from its starches, sweeteners and texturizers, as well as cocoa & chocolate businesses at the event.
The products and solutions showcased are in line with the consumer trends highlighted in Cargill’s TrendTracker 2023 study, with a strong focus on health, nutrition and indulgence.
Cargill’s TrendTracker report shares its proprietary insight into macro trends globally and in the APAC. The report spotlights 4 key macro trends:
1. Healthy For Me
Today’s consumer is taking a more holistic, proactive, and preventative approach to health. A holistic approach considers not just physical health, but also mental and emotional wellbeing. There seems to be a rising tolerance or even appreciation for science, expertise, and food technology. In addition, more and more consumers seek traditionally indulgent food & beverages with a healthier spin.
2. Experience It
Consumers place a high level of importance on experiences. They want to take control of their own diet, enjoying the products they love without feeling guilt or shame. Regarding food and beverage, taste is table stakes, but the experience can be elevated in many creative ways as consumers appreciate surprise and delight.
3. Conscious Consumption
Consumers today seek to maximize value as they make food and beverages purchases. In addition, many consumers view their purchases as a reflection of their values and they want to make decisions that support the environment and other societal causes they care about and they expect transparency from brands to help them do that.
4. Simplify My Life
With consumers staying closer to home these days, they are looking for faster and easier ways to procure, prepare, and clean up food. Omnichannel shopping has accelerated in recent years and there’s no turning back because consumers have gained a better understanding of how technology can make their everyday tasks more convenient.
The study reflects that since to the pandemic, consumers are paying much more attention to nutrition and health than before, and preference towards healthy foods has significantly increased.
Cargill Food Ingredients managing director for North Asia and Australia Ming Peng said looking ahead into 2023, Cargill would continue to play the role of “connector” in the food industry.
“With our product portfolio, capabilities, and global insights, we can help our customers develop healthy, delicious, innovative and sustainable products that meet changing consumer trends. We want to remain not only the leading food ingredient supplier that our customers trust, but also their partner of choice for innovation and growth,” said Peng.
