Food Channel predicts 2010 food trends

Food experts at the Food Channel say that 2010 will see a move away from convenience foods to fresh ingredients cooked at home. The pundits also see continued private-label growth, expanding interest in food sources and sustainability, and a growing focus on functional foods.

Lauren Hartman -- Packaging Digest, 12/14/2009 12:50:38 PM

Food trends are going back to basics, according tothe Food Channel's list of top food trends for 2010.

December 11, 2009 — 

These basics aren't about retro food, comfort food or even economics they're more about determining the essentials and stocking the pantry accordingly, the channel's food gurus predict.

In addition to more eating at home, they envision a shift away from convenience foods and to more from-scratch cooking, "now that we have more time than money, and more food knowledge and concerns."

When people do go out to eat, they'll probably try more new things than ever.

Restaurant concepts are in flux as people redefine what going "out" to eat means, the experts say.

Supermarkets and groceries will continue to see growth in private-label products and a renewed emphasis on in-store butchers, along with upgraded delis and fresh take-out sections, the foodies say. Bulk buys will also continue, but more frequent purchases of fresh meal ingredients will become a more common way to prepare meals and minimize waste. Social media use to find the best buys and new ideas will also figure prominently, the trtend-watchers add.