Top 10 Food Trends In The Summer Of 2022

Dubai, 05.07.22

The summer is here, and we thought we would take a look at what’s trending in the world of diets globally.

While new food trends are emerging every day, some such as the ketogenic diet, vegan, superfood, and fermented foods, are here to stay while others will fade out as quickly as they appeared.

Here are ten food trends that are expected to be popular around the world but also in the UAE in 2022.

Superfood-Based Recipes

Popular superfoods in dishes include kale, Goji berries, and chia seeds among others. A Superfood is a nutrient-dense, health-promoting food that is rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. Wild salmon, which is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, is an example of a protein-rich Superfood.

Quinoa, a complete protein, is an example of a Superfood grain. Berries are a type of Superfood fruit that are high in antioxidants and low in sugar. Spinach, broccoli, and cauliflower are examples of nutrient-dense vegetables.

Real, pure honey has anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antifungal properties. Herbs, such as parsley and cilantro, are extremely healthful since their antioxidant content is higher than that of fruits and vegetables. Antioxidants are essential because they prevent cell damage.

"Clean" Ingredients-Based Foods

Convenience will never go out of style, yet the majority of packaged foods are unsafe due to their high levels of additives, preservatives, and artificial flavors. There will be an increase in "clean" ingredient-based foods in 2022.

Herbs, vegetables, fruits, legumes, unprocessed grains, seeds, nuts, and foods sweetened with natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup rather than regular sugar are examples of clean ingredients.

As more people start understanding the health risks of additives, packaged food ingredient lists will get shorter and shorter.

Meelz specializes in providing you with a range of "clean" ingredients.

Fermented Foods

For good reason, fermented foods are currently trending in the health community. Probiotics are the beneficial microorganisms that our digestive tract requires for optimal health. Probiotics aid in digestive improvement, immune system enhancement, and weight loss.

Popular fermented foods include yogurt, kimchi, kefir, sauerkraut, and sourdough bread.

Check out Teible by Chef Carlos Frunze, who takes fermentation to a whole new level with his brand-new menu.    

Ancient Grains

Ancient grains haven't been lab-modified or had their DNA altered, therefore they're devoid of GMOs.

The high fiber and protein content and nutty flavor of these grains make them ideal for pilafs, stuffing, or salad. These grains have had minimum processing, and most are gluten-free, making them an excellent option for those with gluten sensitivities.

Avocado-Everything

Avocado recipes are ubiquitous and won't stop in 2022. Avocados are an ideal ingredient for dishes that require a creamy texture due to their healthy fat content. Avocado is vegan and keto-friendly. There are countless ways to incorporate avocado into recipes. They can be used to prepare smoothies, sauces, dips, and even desserts.

Plant-Based Seafood

You've probably heard of Beyond Meat and Impossible Foods, whose goods are widely available in restaurants. Nonetheless, plant-based seafood projects are beginning to emerge, making vegetarian food increasingly accessible.

Local And Seasonal Produce

Over the past two years, we have been conscious of the value of purchasing locally. This trend will continue in 2022.  

Because seasonal produce is in season near to where you live, it is at its nutritional peak. Because it doesn't have to be delivered from afar, this product is also more economical.

Despite the weather challenges that it faces, the UAE still manages to produce a variety of fruits and vegetables that are becoming the go-to selection of  local Chefs, restaurants and households. 

Fusion Foods

As the world becomes more linked, international dishes and their fusion are gaining popularity. 

Fusion foods are popular since they're tasty and have fewer "rules." You can play around with typical Western dishes by incorporating preferred flavors from other cultures. Adding a novel spice to a well-known meal can be the simplest fusion recipe. Make your mashed potatoes with ginger, and your steak with Chinese five-spice.

Buzz-Less Drinks

In addition, there is a growing demand for beverages that replicate the flavor and sophistication of classic cocktails but without any buzz.

Alternative Flour Recipes

Recipes are increasingly incorporating alternative flours. These flours are created from almonds, quinoa, coconut, and cassava. These flours have gained popularity since they don't contain gluten and are typically gentler to stomach than wheat flour.

Reductionism

Sustainability initiatives are becoming increasingly important as more and more people and businesses realize the importance of adopting and improving upon existing best practices.

We hope that the "Reduce" in "Reduce, Reuse, Recycle" will be more prominently displayed in 2022 as customers strive to cut back on their consumption (particularly of meat, dairy, and eggs), as well as for businesses that are actively cutting back. This includes the tendency toward less food waste. As a sort of upcycling and waste reduction, we can also anticipate seeing new menu items comprised of leftovers from previous dishes.

So that’s our list for the season. What new food trends do you think will make the list for the winter of 2022-2023? 

Meelz Editorial Team