Three food trends to watch in 2023

Ah, fashion and interior design! Every year, they offer us new trends to discover. But did you know that this also applies to food? Here are three culinary trends that will be the talk of the town in 2023, so get your taste buds ready and open your eyes!

1. The wonder of non-alcoholic spirits

Non-alcoholic and low-alcohol beverages have been gaining in popularity for a few years now, and this trend is not about to fade away. Young, health-conscious and innovative consumers are no longer willing to sacrifice their well-being for a hangover. So how do you enjoy the party without the alcohol? Alcohol-free flavored gin drinks are here to seduce you. While vodka, tequila and wine are harder to imitate, alternatives are emerging and multiplying.

2. Fantastic mushrooms

Who would have thought that mushrooms would become the star ingredient of the year? Rich in vitamins and minerals, this versatile and nutritious food is appreciated as much for its texture as for its benefits. Consumers are increasingly turning to plant-based and sustainable foods, and mushrooms are right at the heart of this trend. Expect to see classic varieties like button and portobello mushrooms blooming, but also more exotic varieties like hedgehog or clumpy polyporus.

3. Nostalgic and retro treats

In a world where comfort is king, what better way to relive childhood memories than with retro candy? Classic candies and sweets are revisited to offer new flavors and textures. Artisanal hard candies, jelly beans and sour lollipops will make your mouth water. Enjoy traditional flavors like tutti frutti, but also more refined tastes such as rose, lychee or plum.

Whether you're excited or skeptical about these food trends, you should know that they are governed by recently updated food safety regulations. Producers of these products, as well as most other manufactured food products, must comply with new requirements if they are imported, exported or sold inter-provincially. To learn more about the regulations that ensure food safety, visit inspection.canada.ca.