Emma Schofield, global food science analyst at Mintel revealed new research during the show in Frankfurt, informing that consumers across the globe believe that what they eat has a direct impact on their emotional wellbeing.
The research shows that consumers, and females in particular, are most interested in food and drink that can improve their holistic health, including everything from their energy levels to their ability to relax and sleep, to their brain function.
She said that ancient health systems can offer inspiration to brands looking to offer holistic health benefits.
“Younger shoppers are showing an interest in mindfulness, yoga, meditation classes and other stress relieving techniques.”
She explained that these newly promoted activities provide opportunities for the food and beverage industry.
“For example, products are using new messaging on-pack, such as Nine Bar - they have added a claim onto pack that they ‘promote mindfulness’ due to the magnesium content of their bars.
“Consumers are also very interested in products that allow them to gain a balance between health and indulgence so we are seeing a lot of products with ‘mindful’ written on them.
"For example, the nut butter brand 'Mindful Bites' claims to offer a 'snack with intention' as it offers an indulgent snack with 'mindfully chosen ingredients'."
Green-minded
Schofield added than ‘mindfulness’ can also include social responsibility as consumers are mindful of how their purchases impact the environment.
“Consumers are interested in products that are beneficial to their own health as well as the health of the environment.
“Mintel research has shown that people are more likely to sight environmental concerns as a reason for limit the amount of meat they eat, over their own personal health concerns.
“As such, there’s an increase in the number of brands making environmental health call-outs on pack."