Food and beverage products are set to change this year, according to a report released by the flavour, ingredient and colour solutions specialist, Flavorchem.

Plant protein power will grow in demand as the ever-evolving market for plant-based protein is forecast to grow by nine per cent until 2023 with a series of new products on the way, according to the company’s Trends and Flavours Forecast.

Other predictions include changes to the breakfast category, including innovative revamps to familiar favourites with more consumers working from home and a greater emphasis on the upcycling of ingredients.

More of us will explore new tastes, seeking products that offer a heightened sensory experience as consumers continue to experience cuisine fatigue while stuck at home.

The report followed Flavorchem’s analysis of the latest product releases, market intelligence reports, data sources and social media channels.

Another report from Hormel Foods Corp suggests that New Year consumption will reflect a blend of old standbys and new trends linked to the pandemic that dominated all aspects of life in 2020.

They predict new routines and eating patterns, along with new approaches to food preparation and experimentation with global cuisine and new ingredients in lieu of the ability to travel.

Additionally, they predict greater interest in hot honey, as an addition to savoury foods and other dishes, the use of waffle irons to make other foods, increased daytime snacking and a greater reliance on food as a wellness aid.

The American food company has also announced the opening of its new dry sausage products manufacturing plant in Papillion, Nebraska. Ed Finnegan, plant manager, issued a statement saying: “We are excited to be opening up this facility to not only help meet the demand for our branded sausage product, but also provide fantastic career opportunities in the community.”