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Targeting the New Mainstream Market

Emerging demographic patterns—an aging population, fewer children, more multicultural consumers, and increasingly cost-conscious shoppers—are resetting product development priorities.
Archery, right on target.
FT_Liz_Sloan A. Elizabeth Sloan

Food Technology Magazine

Key Takeaways

  • Convenience Solutions

    With most meals still prepared at home, consumers—especially younger ones and parents—are seeking easy-prep solutions.

  • Experiential Eating

    Consumers are embracing global flavors, experiential eating, and indulgent snacks.

  • Functional Nutrition

    Across age groups, demand for functional foods is rising, though priorities differ for older and younger consumers.

The U.S. food and beverage landscape is shifting under the weight of powerful demographic and lifestyle changes that are reshaping what, where, and how Americans eat. At the same time, economic pressures and evolving social dynamics are elevating demand for affordable convenience, global flavors, indulgent treats, and functional foods with health benefits that go well beyond basic nutrition.

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Hero Image: ©gremlin/iE+/Getty Images Plus

Authors

  • FT_Liz_Sloan

    A. Elizabeth Sloan President, Sloan Trends Inc.

    A. Elizabeth Sloan, PhD, a member of IFT and contributing editor of Food Technology, is president, Sloan Trends Inc., Escondido, Calif. (lizsloan@sloantrend.com).

Categories

  • Food Business Trends

  • Foodservice

  • Consumer and Marketplace Trends

  • Food Categories

  • Culinary and Ingredient Trends

  • Food Product Development

  • Snacks

  • Market Trends

  • Food Retailing

  • Refrigeration and Frozen Foods

  • Food Technology Magazine