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Trends

Macro Foodservice Industry Trends

“The Covid Generation”

  • According to research company, Datassential, 83% of consumers believe that the pandemic permanently changed the way that we live – the top two trends that came out of Covid-19 and lockdown were healthier eating habits and cooking skills.
  • Take-out & delivery and grocery delivery significantly increased during this time and consumers will continue to utilize these convenient ways to obtain food.
  • One of the most negative aspects of the pandemic was the scarcity of food items, and consumers will continue to stock up on shelf-stable items out of fear.
  • According to the International Food Manufacturers Association, the foodservice industry saw a 93% uptick in digital orders versus 2020 and 182% versus 2019; while this was a small base, digital ordering will continue to drive traffic in the industry.

Here comes the Metaverse

  • The metaverse is a virtual environment or series of environments that users can inhabit. Users can socialize and create, buy, and sell goods within this digital space.
  • 50% of consumers have heard of the metaverse (Datassential 2022).
  • Younger consumers are turning to the metaverse for events such as birthday parties or virtual concerts.

Mind Health

  • A focus on foods that help mind health – 80% of consumers said taking time for themself followed by exercise, being active, spending time with friends and family, and eating right is important (Datassential 2022).
  • Over half of consumers are extremely or very likely to purchase foods that support their mental well-being.
  • Eighty-three percent of consumers strongly or somewhat agree that food can be medicine (Datassential 2022).

Plant-Based Trends to Watch - Veggie Heroes

  • Sixty percent of consumers say they prefer plant-based foods that showcase the fruit or vegetable instead of mimicking another food (Datassential 2022).

Potato Trends

  • Potatoes are found on over 80% of menus in the United States and continue to grow in restaurants.
  • While fries are a ubiquitous menu item, they continue to grow. Operators are getting creative with “loaded” fry dishes, adding anything from cheese and bacon to pulled pork and brisket. Loaded fries are a great way for consumers to try an ingredient they may not be familiar with alongside something they are very familiar with.
  • Breakfast potatoes are loved or liked by over 50% of U.S. consumers and are projected to grow on menus at a rate of 19% over the next four years.