Trends in the food industry are constantly evolving, and the Summer Fancy Food Show is a prime opportunity to discover what flavors, foods, and drinks will dominate menus and grocery store shelves in the near future. This year’s show, held at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center in New York, showcased more than 2,400 companies and attracted a diverse range of attendees such as restaurant operators, specialty food retailers, and trendspotters.
One of the standout trends at the Summer Fancy Food Show was the resurgence of ancient flavors. Honey, a staple in human diets for thousands of years, took center stage as a prominent flavor. Its health benefits were praised by trendspotters, and various food and beverage makers incorporated honey into their products. Green Bee introduced a honey soda with a Honeycomb Cider flavor, while Owl Creek Organics & Natural Flavors unveiled a range of honey spreads in flavors like caffe mocha and lemon poppyseed. Even Klepper & Klepper, a Dutch company, used honey as a flavor for their licorice.
Another trend that caught visitors’ attention was the rise of tinned fish. Traditionally associated with Spanish and Portuguese cuisines, tinned fish gained popularity across the show floor this year. This trend was fueled in part by the influence of TikTok, which sparked increased sales of canned sardines. Specialty food companies responded by offering a wider variety of flavors, seafood options, and more stylish packaging. For example, Wildfish Cannery showcased its retro-designed sockeye salmon cans, while Krill Arctic Foods presented canned krill meat with an emphasis on its nutritional profile.
Convenience and protein-rich diets were also key themes at the Summer Fancy Food Show. Many exhibitors focused on providing new ways to consume fish on the go. Acme Smoked Fish introduced Lox in a Box snack kits that came with cream cheese or avocado, catering to consumers’ desire for satisfying snacks. Legend of Master International, an Asian food supplier, showcased Kani fish cake sticks that could be eaten like string cheese or used in cooking.
Additionally, the popularity of charcuterie boards continued to soar, thanks in part to social media. To meet the demand for elevated charcuterie options, companies showcased innovative salami flavors. Tempesta Artisan Salumi offered black truffle-flavored salami, while Salt & Twine presented a mezcal and salted lime flavor. Beyond experimenting with flavors, some exhibitors also ventured beyond traditional pork-based charcuterie. Driftless Provisions incorporated elk, venison, and bison alongside pork in their salami, while Fossil Farms featured lamb and wagyu beef options.
Lastly, the Summer Fancy Food Show featured snacks specifically designed to pair with alcoholic beverages. Wine Chips and The Drinks Bakery targeted consumers who sought the perfect snack to complement their drinks. The Drinks Bakery offered “drinks biscuits,” such as parmesan, toasted pine nuts, and basil biscuits that could be enjoyed with a variety of drinks. Wine Chips, on the other hand, offered thick-cut potato chips in flavors like Sel Gris, specifically crafted to pair with sparkling wines.
Overall, the Summer Fancy Food Show provided a glimpse into the emerging trends in the food industry. From the incorporation of ancient flavors like honey to the innovation in tinned fish products and convenient fish snacks, the show highlighted the diverse range of options available to consumers. Additionally, the focus on unique salami flavors and snacks tailored for alcoholic beverages demonstrated the industry’s commitment to meeting evolving consumer preferences. As these trends continue to gain traction, it’s clear that the future of food is both delicious and exciting.
