2014 Food Trends

The food industry has become much more than nutrition. The culinary world fills not only our stomachs but our need for entertainment. It is necessary for businesses to be aware of up and coming trends, failure to invest in the “next big thing” can result in financial turmoil along with a loss of business. Being ahead of trends is important for consumers too, don’t waste time with outdated diets. As we begin to enter a new year Public Kitchen Supply investigated the top five food trends to look forward to in 2014.

Upscale dining is no longer just for special occasions. In 2013 we found people enjoy a taste of the finer things in life on a regular basis. Restaurateurs and food lovers should be aware that many culinary companies are cashing in on the fine dining experience. Expect chain restaurants to tailor their menus for multi-course meals at an affordable price. Companies like Olive Garden and Applebee’s have already picked up on this trend offering full course meals that most people can afford. For a fine dining experience that is unique to your palate look for smaller businesses that own one or very few restaurants.

Artisan food is typically hand made following practices that have survived the test of time.  In 2014 artisan foods are expected to boom in their popularity. It’s important to note that true artisan foods are hand crafted and do not use industrialized methods. Look for foods that stress culinary appearance, simplicity and craftsman ship. You can typically find this type of cuisine at farmers markets or by purchasing high quality locally grown products and doing it yourself.

Specialty diets like eating gluten free became prevalent in 2013 and is only expected to increase next year. This is a great trend for people who have celiac disease or a wheat allergy. If your body is not afflicted by wheat you probably don’t need to cut it entirely out of your diet but it is beneficial to limit the amount of gluten in your diet. Having gluten-free products on your menu is a great way to bring in customers who do have special dietary restrictions.

Culinary chefs are expected to favor cauliflower this year serving it up many different styles. Expect to see cauliflower grilled, roasted, fried and everything in between. Part of cauliflowers popularity is the health benefits associated with it. It is a great source of potassium, phosphorus, protein, manganese and vitamin C. Try incorporating this power vegetable in classic side dishes like mashed potatoes but replace the potatoes with a head of cauliflower, this is a delicious and healthier choice.

The Paleolithic diet, also known as the caveman diet, is comprised of fresh fruits, vegetables, nuts, fungi and roots along with seafood and pasteurized meats. It is meant to resemble the diet our ancestors had during the Paleolithic period. The diet avoids processed foods along with grains, dairy, refined sugar and refined salt. The caveman diet is thought to be healthy because it consists of a healthy balanced diet that is easily found in nature.

Following culinary trends is a great way to try new recipes and foods. Incorporating trends in your restaurant can bring in new business. Venture into the unknown by sampling these 2014 ideas, you may find something you like! For more culinary tips and fantastic cookware visit our website at: PublicKitchenSupply.com.