We’ve reached the time of year when it’s customary to look back fondly on the trends that have shaped the way we feel, love, dress, live and eat. However, as 2021 draws to a welcome close, we’re sure you’ll forgive us for wanting to look forwards not back. So, what does 2022 have in store for the world of food and drink?
We’ve trawled the web and spoken to some culinary movers and shakers and here are some of the shift changes we have to look forward to.
1. Mindful drinking
The pandemic was super boozy. Well, what else was there to do?! But someone smart came up with Sober October and Dry January to help us out. In support of these initiatives, and harnessing innovation alongside the mood change, there are a host of new non-alcoholic offerings on our supermarket shelves and they are as tasty as the real stuff.
Health-conscious consumers and moderate drinkers have driven this trend and we’re excited to try some of these exciting concoctions at the next Quattro do. Delicious fizz that promises gut health and better sleep? We’re sold! In fact, we’ve heard that Dublin’s first alcohol-free bar has just opened. Feeling good without the hangover – now that’s what we call innovation.
2. Reducetarianism
We’ve talked so much about plant-based diets over the past couple of years, and here it is, back in our blog, but rebranded. The artist formerly known as veganism is now the slightly less pronounceable reducetarianism. In fairness, it’s not quite the same thing. This one (we’re not going to wrap our tongue around the word again) focuses on the gradual reduction of the consumption of animal products. It’s the term for those who aren’t ready to go fully vegan, but want to eat less meat. But they’ll only consume high-quality animal products when they do indulge. It’s more about increasing meat alternatives in your diet, which are getting better, healthier and more like the real thing all the time. Pea protein nuggets anyone? Bring it on!
3. Going global, loving new flavours
Which region are we embracing next year? And the winner is……South American flavours are on the menu! (Very loud cheer at Quattro HQ)
Let’s add some aji amarillo chilies to absolutely everything we cook. Peruvian foods like ceviche and huancaina sauce are high on our 2022 shopping list.
4. Brain food
From bars to powders, these adaptogens and grass-fed proteins help you function at full capacity all day long. With a touch of hibiscus, sunflower seeds, and prebiotic-boosted drinks, say goodbye to brain fog for good.
5. Grains that give back
The circular economy – that ubiquitous term. It’s about giving back from the places that give, specifically in the food world; nurturing the producers that create the food we consume, and supporting farming practices that optimise soil health and produce grains that are better for us. So, from cereals to bread, pasta and beer, if we eat and drink produce from healthy soil, tended by well-paid farmers, we’re contributing to the idea of wellbeing for the planet and its people, and we’re eating great food. Sounds like a win, win.