Speciality Food Magazine - May 2025

5 specialityfoodmagazine.com between 2024 and 2031.While plant protein substitutes have plateaued, as the industry pivots to adapt to consumers preferences towards ‘cleaner’ alternatives, the products thought to benefit most will be high- quality meat, tofu, tempeh, beans, pulses, nuts, anything infused with collagen, snacking salamis and jerky. UPF-free food A recent report from the American Journal of Preventative Medicine (capturing data from eight countries) found that ultra-processed foods make up a startling 53% of the average British person’s energy intake – second only to the USA (55%). Researchers claim this propensity to rely on heavily processed products could be responsible for thousands of premature deaths. The UK Government has responded by saying it will continue to double down on ways to minimise the health impact of UPFs here, having already targeted junk food advertising aimed at children, and introduced HFSS regulations. Consumers are becoming much W hen you’re in the ‘buying seat’, it’s easy to become distracted by all the noise circulating in the food and drink industry. There’s always something shiny and new just around the corner, promising to be to be ‘the next big thing’ that will sweep shoppers off their feet. At Speciality Food , we’ve always got our finger on the pulse, and we spend a great deal of time exploring innovations and new products, learning from analysts and experts which products are the ones worth investing in. Here are our thoughts for the second half of 2025. Drinks that do you good There’s no getting away from the vast expansion of the functional drinks sector – nor the positive reception from consumers. Until the last two years, the category was largely dominated by kombucha (expected to grow by 13.8% in the next five years), followed by gut-friendly sodas, which latched onto the gut health conversation, claiming to help drinkers upgrade their internal microflora. Expansion of both types of drink continues apace – their ongoing success encouraging other brands to join them in the wellness space. We’re seeing interest in protein water, ACV drinks, green tea energy drinks, and in adaptogenic products (particularly those aimed more aware about the implications of UPF-led diets, paying greater attention to labels and ingredients. In fact, a Facebook group (Reducing Ultra-Processed Foods) set up just months ago, already has nearly 100,000 active members, demonstrating just how important it is for retailers to be mindful of what they offer in a speciality setting. Asian condiments If there’s one product that swept the floor in artisan retail last year, it was chilli crisp, riding on the coattails of 2023’s hot honey craze. Independents tell us their customers cannot get enough of this umami, spicy condiment. And it’s led shoppers to explore further the deliciously diverse offerings of Asia, as they recreate dishes they’ve eaten in restaurants or seen on social media at home. Brands tell us their customers value authenticity, natural ingredients, and multifunctionality. Ones to watch include rayu, gochujang, togarashi seasoning, XO sauce, sriracha, ssamjang and kecap manis. We predict a boom in Asian at perimenopausal women) boosted with ashwagandha, mushrooms and minerals such as magnesium. According to Statista, almost 10% of UK consumers are spending more than £20 per month on functional drinks, so it’s certainly worth considering these products more seriously. Protein Protein has (for now) replaced gut health as the wellbeing focus of the moment. It’s being talked about everywhere, and by a more diverse demographic of people, beyond gym fanatics. More is being understood and shared about the role of protein inmanaging weight and blood sugar, and helping to support our muscles as we age. Dr Rupy Aujla’s most recent book – The Doctor’s Kitchen: Healthy High Protein – has already topped best-seller lists and he, and others in the wellness field, are being very vocal about the benefits of protein right now, which has naturally led to spiked interest in retail. Cognitive Market Research’s data predicts 6% growth in the proteinmarket Stay on trend this summer Speciality Food delves into the most exciting categories to watch over the next fewmonths ingredients in 2025, with South American condiments projected to be on the up for 2026 as consumer awareness grows. Fruit and nut snacks Credence Research thinks there will be a 5.78% growth in the UK dried fruits market between 2024 and 2032, while Statista believes the nuts market will grow by 5.55% between 2025 and 2030. We’ve seen dramatic changes in both of these snacking categories in the last 12 months alone, with new products constantly becoming available. Not only are most of themHFSS compliant (creating better opportunities for grab and go impulse purchases in larger stores) but they lean heavily into customer preferences for healthier snacking that can help them boost their fibre, vitamin, mineral and protein intake. Statista says sustainably sourced and organic nuts are worth stocking as their trajectory for consumer interest rises. While Mintel’s data shows premium options (luxury chocolate coated or seasoned nuts, for example) will prove their value to retailers, as 55% of consumers say they would pay more for gourmet snacking products. That’s certainly plenty of food for thought! Turn to our Trendsetters report from page 22 to discover more of the trends you need to know about in 2025. Judges Judged by renowned chefs and industry experts. Have your products crowned the best in Britain by the likes of Michel Roux Jr. , Theo Randall , Sally Abé or Olly Smith . greatbritishfoodawards.com A celebration of the UK’s finest food and drink - from artisanal cheese and meat to premium drinks and preserves, we showcase Britain’s deliciously diverse menu. NOW OPEN