Join us as we take a deep dive into Classics Bring Comfort with global market research partner, Mintel.
This report covers Classics Bring Comfort through a regional lens across our three business segments, including CPG Snacking, Protein, and QSR/Foodservice, with the overarching objective of elevating insight-driven culinary leadership around the world.
Classics Bring Comfort:
In 2020, consumers around the world turned to their favorite comfort foods in a time of unprecedented change and uncertainty. Today as they navigate a new reality, many consumers still demand foods that support their desire for comfort, familiarity and emotional wellbeing.
Home-cooked meals became a source of comfort, with consumers taking time to hone their culinary skills. But many are ready for new recipes and meals to add into their rotation. Speed-scratch options (such as sous-vide meal kits) and retail adaptations of restaurant favorites give consumers delicious shortcuts for creating craveable comfort foods at home. For example, a popular pizza chain in the Philippines began offering a ready-to-cook version of their trademark crispy potatoes, available in supermarkets. The product created a sense of community on social media, too, through shared “hacks” and cooking tips.
Operators and manufacturers alike can showcase comfort food innovation against such themes as “nostalgic dishes” or “twists on a classic.” On the protein side, one upscale restaurant in the UK offered a tasting menu inspired by childhood favorites elevated with premium, artisanal meat and seafood—think lasagna with ox cheek ragu and fish sticks with salmon tartare. The snack category does a great job mixing new and traditional comfort food flavors—items like Cuban Sandwich-flavored potato chips in Canada showcase this consumer curiosity.
Starting with a recognizable format and changing up the condiments, fillings or toppings captures the attention of consumers in a big way. Striking a balance between both familiar and exciting flavors will carry the momentum of the comfort trend forward in the year ahead.
To learn more about each of our 2021 trends, please contact your local Griffith Foods representative.
