Seafood Hits the Mark with Top Food Trends for 2016 – Part 1
Consumers’ food interests and priorities continue to evolve thanks to technology improvements and changes in the economy, environment, and our social connectivity. And that’s exactly what we see with the top food trends for 2016. Market research firm Mintel released its findings late last year and while ALL have been great for seafood-rich diets, we have our favorites!
- Protein Alternatives Go Mainstream
Alternatives like veggie burgers and soymilk move beyond the vegetarian and dietary limitation craze. Alternative protein sources and potential substitutes now appeal to the everyday consumer. We love that fish is super healthy, packed with protein, and can substitute beef, chicken, or pork in a variety of tasty recipes.
- Getting Away From Artificial
Consumers want natural, less processed food and drink options, forcing companies to reduce or remove artificial, less known ingredients. Whether you are buying fresh or frozen seafood, there are many natural options available. If you go the frozen route, make sure that the seafood is the only ingredient on the list. For a fresher version of natural and healthy seafood, buy from your local seafood market.
- Feeling Good, From The Inside Out
Consumers have a better understanding of how much their diet can impact the way they look AND feel. This has put a new emphasis on personal and physical wellness, creating a market for products enhanced with beneficial components, such as collagen, probiotics, or omega-3 fatty acids.
Increasing the amount of seafood in your diet can go a long way toward achieving optimal health without sacrificing taste. Seafood is packed with beneficial omega-3s, iron, selenium, and other essential nutrients. In fact, just two servings each week, which is the recommendation by the USDA, can reduce your risk of heart disease by 36%. Research also shows eating seafood improves brain development and may reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s disease.
As a member of our local Seafood Nutrition Partnership (SNP) coalition, taking its Heart Healthy Pledge is great first step to achieving personal and physical wellness.
| Take the Healthy Heart Pledge |
Still not convinced? Click here to learn how the OKC Thunder’s Enes Kanter lost 40 pounds by incorporating more seafood into his diet.
Sources: Seafood Nutrition Partnership, Aquarium of the Pacific
