Sardines and Bacon are Hot Food Items for 2010

by Susan on 12/17/09 at 10:39 am

Sardines and Bacon: 2010 Darlings

Last week, FriendsEat.com reported that culinary cocktails and artisan liquor were emerging as top 2010 menu trends. This week, New York based advertising agency J. Walter Thompson added to the discussion, and released its list of the top food trends for 2010. The agency, which boasts an impressive list of international clients, represents giants Nestlé, Kellogg’s and Kraft Foods.

Sharing the spotlight with the National Restaurant Association prediction, is that wine cocktails will become a prominent menu item in the coming year. Designer cocktails, using wine, sodas, distilled spirits, juices and other flavorings are expected to play a major role in restaurant profitability, as they can offer tantalizing tastes with lower alcohol content and higher profit margins.

It's pretty amazing, actually.

Bacon flavors continue to be all the rage and this trend is expected to continue well into 2010 and beyond. From bacon-infused cocktails to bacon flavored mayonnaise, the smart entrepreneur would be smart to add more bacon dishes to his or her menu.

Another trend to watch in 2010 is the proliferation of organic fast food eateries. Organic and natural pizza, burger and taco chains are popping up all across America, giving customers the illusion that they are consuming more wholesome meals. Time will tell if this is true or not.

Also appearing on J. Walter Thompson’s list are sardines, which seem to be replacing tuna as the “go to” food when nothing else seems appealing. With very low levels of mercury and high amounts of Omega-3 fatty acids, sardines are actually tasty and healthy little morsels. Look for them to start appearing on menus as the sardine yield continues to grow.

Finally, consumers are tired of messages from food producers about the benefits of their particular products, and government officials are equally skeptical about unsubstantiated claims. Look for government and nutritionists to demand changes and accountability.

Do you have any predictions for 2010? Share them with us at FriendsEat.com!

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