Trends In The Food Industry Essay

The consumer is the focal point to all changes and trends influencing food markets worldwide. Fundamental changes in western society such as an aging population, ethnic diversity, more women in the workforce, employment levels, and increased awareness of food intolerances, a focus on healthy living, and a slower growth in income continually dictate changes in the food system (1). As the lifestyles of consumers change so must the food industry in order to adapt, survive and make innovations in the marketplace. Consumers began to view food from a whole new vantage point in the 1990s and therefore, consumer demands in the field of food production have changed considerably. The belief in food having a direct impact on health in terms of preventing diet related illnesses (for example: reducing high cholesterol) as well as contributing to their physical and mental well being has led to the notion that food is now about much more than just satiety and providing nutrition (2). The increasing demand on such foods can be explained by the increasing cost of healthcare, the steady increase in life expectancy, and the desire of older people for improved quality of their later years (2). This growing trend has led to the development in an area known as ‘functional foods’. Functional foods can be defined as those providing health benefits beyond basic nutrition and include whole, fortified, enriched or enhanced foods which have a potentially beneficial

As understanding the relationship between nutrition and health grows, consumers are now demanding that food contributes to their general well being and plays a role in obtaining optimal health. The purchase of functional foods may play a role in giving the consumer a modern and positive impression of themselves and offers an alternative means to a healthier lifestyle