FuturistU > Consumers > Unpacking Consumer Behavior > Module 2 / 5

The Mind

Instructor: Shelby Walsh
Emerging Foods
Download the Emerging Foods Trend Report
In this final module on consumer behavior, we’ll be looking at the changes occurring in the consumer mindset today. Through the lens of trend tensions, this module explores individualism versus collectivism and what this means in terms of business opportunity.

Case studies will uncover where consumers are turning to better get a better understanding of themselves and how they are expressing their individuality as well as how “tribes” are coming together collectively to help individuals find meaning and communal support.
Related Trend Report: Emerging Foods
Workshop Questions:
1. What would change about your business if it was considered a tech company?
2. What would change about your business if scarcity was its paramount value?
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Featured Insights

Regional Alcohol-Free
Non-alcoholic beverages incorporate the flavor nuances of local regions
Implications - In recent years the growth of the non-alcoholic beverage category reflects a shift in drinking habits. To better cater to these preferences, brands are crafting alcohol-free products that take inspiration from the flavors of popular regional cocktails.
Workshop Question - Consider how the incorporation of local elements could impact the perception of your brand. What elements could you incorporate?
5
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Cultured Creamery
Ice Cream is used as a step towards experiencing global palette
Implications - By leveraging ice cream as an exploratory platform, brands are allowing consumers to experience new cultures via regional flavors, but with the security of the familiar dessert concept. This combination speaks to the consumer desire for experimental foodie experiences, coupled with a refusal to limit their palettes to their own geographic experiences.
Workshop Question - How can your brand combine the security that comes with familiarity, with an experimental product or experience?
2.3
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Insights by Trend Hunter AI

Local Cream
Cream cheese products are infused with local and regionally-inspired flavors
Trend - Brands are introducing new cream cheese products that incorporate flavors and ingredients tied to specific geographic regions. From savory or sweet to fusion-inspired, they often highlight local spices, herbs, fruits, or cultural recipes that are unique from traditional Western recipes.
Workshop Question - How can your brand use regional inspirations to aid in product development?
7.9
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Mediterranean Luxe
Food & beverage embrace Mediterranean flavors as markers of sophistication
Trend - Restaurants and beverage brands are elevating their offerings with flavors from Southern Europe, North Africa and the Eastern Mediterranean. Ingredients like saffron, pistachio, pomegranate and rose are appearing in contemporary formats—from basil limoncello spritzes to pistachio rose lattes.
Workshop Question - How could your brand use global flavor cues to turn everyday products into meaningful moments of escape?
4.3
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Plant Yogurt
Plant-based yogurts integrate into daily lives of consumers with dietary concerns
Trend - Dairy brands release plant-based yogurt products in various formats including yogurt cups, frozen yogurts, and yogurt bars. These are designed to offer the benefits of yogurts to consumers with vegan dietary restrictions, with format options accounting for different meals and times of day.
Workshop Question - How can we innovate our product offerings to address both ethical concerns and convenience while appealing to diverse dietary preferences and routines?
7.1
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Kava Culture
Non-alcoholic beverages are embracing kava as a new ingredient for mindful consumers
Trend - Beverage brands are incorporating kava, a traditional Pacific root known for its calming properties, into functional drinks that promise relaxation without alcohol. These products combine ancient botanical wisdom with modern wellness trends, offering consumers a way to unwind while maintaining their health goals.
Workshop Question - How could your brand tap into the mindful indulgence movement?
7.2
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Revisited Cake
Brands are creating black forest desserts to appeal to nostalgic consumers
Trend - Black Forest cake, an iconic German dessert layered with chocolate, cherries, and whipped cream, is resurfacing across modern bakeries, cafes, and dessert items. Once viewed as a nostalgic indulgence, it is now experiencing a resurgence in popularity, fueled by consumer interest in retro trends.
Workshop Question - How can your brand use its product to evoke fond memories in its target consumer?
5.4
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Spirit Supplement
Alcohol-free supplements that offer buzz-like effects are gaining popularity
Trend - New brands are launching 0% ABV supplements designed to provide calming, alcohol-like feelings for sober consumers. Some of these supplements are flavorless and are designed to be added to a drink of choice, while others simply require mixing with water to be ready to drink.
Workshop Question - How might we create innovative products that align with the growing consumer demand for alcohol-free alternatives that offer relaxation and social enjoyment?
4.8
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Umami Libation
Umami flavors become increasingly dominant in modern cocktail and alcohol formulas
Trend - Alcohol brands are positioning themselves to align with the savory cocktail trend by experimenting with ingredients that deliver strong umami flavors. From MSG to seaweed, the inclusion of these ingredients imparts a unique flavor combination that caters to the palates of adventurous drinkers.
Workshop Question - How can your brand subvert the expectations of its target consumers?
3.1
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Kitty Confection
Hello Kitty is increasingly used for marketing desserts and confectionery items
Trend - Sanrio's Hello Kitty is venturing into the snacking space through a number of innovative brand collaborations. From candies to ice cream, these treats combine the character's charm with delectable flavors, allowing fans to express their love for the cartoon cat in a delicious and adorable way.
Workshop Question - How can your brand tap into the inner child of its target audience?
5.1
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Freeze-Dried Organic
CPG brands are using freeze-drying to preserve organic snacks more naturally
Trend - Brands are using freeze-drying to better preserve the freshness and flavor of foods without extra additives or preservatives. This results in all-natural, organic products with authentic flavors. These snacks are positioned as better-for-you treats with extended shelf lives.
Workshop Question - How could your brand ensure its products are meeting as many needs of its consumers as possible, rather than focusing on one?
6.2
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