New Trends of the New Year

Fresh Takes – Issue 04 – December 2021

By Devin Armstrong
Customer Development Director, Brown Foodservice Inc.
December 15, 2021

For many people, December is a time for family and relaxation, but in our industry, it’s time to plan! So while we’re making a list and checking it twice, remember to look ahead to 2022. Thus far, the trends are just what our market is looking for!

 

Nostalgic food and a return to tradition: 

The pandemic has been challenging, but it looks like there is some light at the end of the tunnel. Next year is the year of “food your grandma used to make”. Think casseroles, fried pork chops and gravyyou know, the kind of food our region is best at.

 

Breakfast and brunch: 

Americans are returning to the classic breakfast. “Two eggs, over easy, with sausage, and toast please”, but other classics are on the rise as well. Think eggs Benedict, but with a southern twist. Use grits as base, country ham, an over easy egg (I prefer poached), and classic hollandaise. Have a mimosa on the menu? Offer a Mocktail version of it on the side (orange juice with sparkling grapefruit water or lemon sparkling water). Mocktails are expected to grow in popularity in 2022. 

 

Fresh foods and produce: 

As we grow, so does our produce selection, and we cannot wait to offer you more as time goes on. Mushrooms seem to be a big winner for 2022, as well as “flexitarian” options. For example, a burger made of 66% Beef and 33% Mushrooms is a great way to offer a healthier option. Consumers will be looking for more nutritious choices in 2022.

 

Korean influence: 

Korean and east Asian inspired foods have been trending over the last few years. Be ready to see more flavors like Gochujang on menus near you. 

 

Smaller Menus:

While consumers dictate what we put on menus, as an operator you have control over the size of your menu. This is the time to make your menu as cost-efficient as possible, while still offering your customer’s favorites. This can minimize the amount of production in the back of the house, which will result in better food and labor cost. Also, offer specials, or as we call them in distribution “Limited Time Offers.” This will help you take advantage of specials that we can offer you without tying up critical inventory space. 

 

Thank you for another wonderful year. We look forward to working with you in the many years ahead.

Happy Holidays & Happy New Year from our Brown Foodservice Family to yours.