The year 2024 promises an interesting range of trends that will change the way we experience food in the fast-paced world of food. The food industry is gearing up for a year of innovation and sustainability, from the growth of third-culture cuisine to the celebration of unique flavors and ingredients. Here's a look at the top five food business trends for 2024.

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‍1. Culinary Mashups

A riot of bold flavors and cultural mashups will dominate the culinary world in 2024. Based on 73% demand for innovative and diverse menus, chefs are creating dishes that go beyond culinary boundaries. The trend extends into experimental territory with dishes like "burger quesadillas" and "pizza pot pies," which are riding a 55% surge in Pinterest searches. 

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2. Rise of Asian Flavors 

In 2024, Asian flavors and ingredients are expected to dominate the culinary world. The predominance of Asian tastes in snacks has climbed by 32% in the last year, according to the Specialty Food Association. This increase is visible in the popularity of goods such as milk tea-filled donuts and ube hot chocolate, demonstrating a general acceptance of Asian culinary ingredients.

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3. Steps Toward Sustainability

The expanding food business is driven by sustainability. A recent Nielsen survey found that 73% of customers are willing to adjust their purchase patterns to lessen their environmental effects. As corporations respond to customer demand for ecologically sensitive products, the growth of alternative chocolates, waterless plant milk, and snacks made from drought-tolerant crops reflects this change. 

As restaurants look for ways to become more sustainable, KASO emerges as a game changer, allowing them to step towards being more sustainable. From ensuring restaurants order exactly what they need and avoid over-ordering using powerful personalized analytics, to digitalizing all LPOs, the platform allows restaurants to manage their food waste and take their first steps towards a greener, more sustainable future.

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4. Putting the “plant” back in “plant-based”

In 2024, the plant-based movement will undergo a major transformation, abandoning processed alternatives in favor of natural foods. Mintel and Whole Foods highlight the need for natural ingredients, bringing mushrooms, walnuts, tempeh, and legumes onto the plant-based food scene.

Katie Trant, a nutritionist, praises the protein-packed potential of black beans, lentils, tofu, and tempeh, dispelling the idea that meat alternatives must be complicated. Mushrooms have taken center stage as the go-to, sustainable meat substitute. According to Datassential research, 62% of consumers are on board with plant-based eating, with mushrooms taking the top rank owing to their crave-worthy texture and umami flavor. 

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5. A Fiery Fiesta with Spices

Prepare for a spicy trend in 2024 as specialty peppers continue to dominate grocery store aisles. Expect specialized peppers not just in sauces and condiments, but also in your beverages. The fire is on as hot tastes take center stage, adding excitement to every food and beverage. People are experimenting with different chili’s by manufacturing their own chili oils and sauces. Jalapeno, habanero, cayenne, and Sichuan chili flakes are all popular hot peppers. 

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Revolutionizing Food Procurement

KASO is revolutionizing the food procurement process for restaurants in the middle of current culinary changes. Bridging the gap between restaurants and suppliers by providing a platform for restaurants to simplify their buying process. This new technology is transforming how restaurants and cafes are getting their ingredients, increasing efficiency and promoting a collaborative environment.

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Stepping now into 2024, the food industry will be an exciting scene of cultural fusion, environmental practices, and culinary creativity. Whether appreciating the umami depth of lesser-known aquatic ingredients or reveling in the sensory experience of spice in a drink, these trends, backed up by data, highlight an exciting year for foodies and industry experts.