Authentic ingredients and prepackaged food, paradoxically, top the list of food industry trends for 2014, says Mark Napier, Exhibition Director, Gulfood.
1. Demand for healthy, organic food is gaining pace: Nutrition related health issues in the region in the past decades, such as obesity, diabetes and heart diseases, have created an increased awareness about the importance of a healthy lifestyle, including food options in the daily routine. Demand for healthy alternatives such as locally grown organic produce is expected to increase dramatically in the next decade, as public awareness about healthier eating habits grows, says Napier. “Many food manufacturers (both domestic and international) are including health and diet foods in their product category to meet the demand from a growing health-conscious population. At the same time, governments are starting programmes meant to support local organic farms to meet the demand,” he adds.
2. GCC demand for processed or prepackaged food is increasing: Growing population, urbanisation and increased workforce participation have led to a busier lifestyle in the region. As a result, says Napier, people spend less time preparing elaborate meals, choosing ready-to-eat, prepackaged food.
3. Shift in consumption habits — rise in meat consumption: Rising affluence levels in the GCC region has led to increased demand for protein-rich foods, particularly meat, says Napier. While traditional foods and eating habits still dominate, there is a major shift taking place in the GCC food sector as consumption habits change. “One such change is an increased demand for protein-rich foods, particularly meat and dairy products, a shift from a carbohydrate-based one that consisted of staple food items such as cereals,” he explains.
