by Eleanor Satuito

Current and emerging trends in recent years have leaned toward gaining access to more cost-efficient products and quick fixes amid the global economic, political, and social disruptions across industries. From information generation to process automation and connectivity, today’s society is saddled with the unending search for more sustainable solutions and lifestyles. These necessary shifts include finding healthier alternatives in the realm of food consumption and production.

In the food industry, major brands, buyers, and consumers alike are pushing for more nutrient-rich food products, from the quality of the food source, type of meal preparation, down to the tablescape on certain occasions. The current food movement we see today is being influenced not just by our continuing education about health and the environment.  Technology-based and innovation-driven trends are also key drivers shaping the way we consume. It is also in this fast-paced, instant gratification era that we are experiencing the call for a more natural, nutrient-rich, and culture-based food landscape, an ever-growing mecca crucial to the bigger picture of food security and socio-economic longevity.

Securing longevity through technology
Fortunately, advances in technology and other innovative approaches are gradually paving the way for mitigating the global food crisis, and championing better health. 

Vacuum frying is one of the cooking technologies gaining more traction in the realm of healthy snacking. With its ability to retain more nutrients and natural flavor components because it uses less oil and low temperatures, vacuum frying also provides a practical solution against food waste, particularly with surplus fruits and vegetables. And although vacuum-fried meal preparations or products are not new in the food scene, access to this technology can provide more income-generating opportunities, especially for micro economies and food and nutrition-challenged communities.

Alarming figures from the United Nations (UN) SDG Report 2023 confirm the urgency for sustainable change. Findings include the average annual food wasted by each person to be an estimated 120 kilograms. Such is compounded by supply chain interruptions that render more food waste due to spoilage of agricultural products from rural or far-flung communities.  Whether due to cosmetic standards or farm-to-market accessibility, these issues are widening the gap, impacting socio-economic development. Additionally, the challenge of integrating healthy eating and convenience, in general, has always been at the crux of man’s relationship with food. 

Heeding the call for global change, the UN with its member states came up with what are currently the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) committed to the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. These goals act as the guidepost for bringing about global peace and prosperity, stressing the mission for ending poverty, including achieving zero hunger, and good health and well-being across all ages as top priorities. 

Sustaining a market for healthy and convenient food culture
The global health craze in beverages is also ripe with more nutrition-conscious and natural-based ingredients. Unlikely combinations with fruits and vegetables have also evolved over the years, such as coffee drinks infused with herbs and spices, even fresh fruits and vegetables. Flavor iterations in these drinks also reflect regional traditions, culture, and climate. 

Infusions in drinks and snacks that are fruit or vegetable-based are a regular fixture in many      parts of Asia. These food integrations are part of the consistent uptick in global market demand for healthy food and beverages that are also convenient, mixing necessary nutrition with indulgence.

Along with a steady presence in supermarkets, food stores, and online platforms, food shows and trade fairs are a big boost to growing more awareness about these healthy and convenient food products. They provide many micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), solo proprietors, and distributors valuable opportunities to grow their business through crucial networking, business insights, and market exposure in the F&B industry.

One such gathering is Gulfood 2024 in Dubai from February 19023, 2024. Alongside other countries, the Philippines will again take part with its delegation of exhibitors who will showcase a curated brand of premier quality food products and ingredients under the FOODPhilippines program of the Center for International Trade Expositions and Missions (CITEM), the lead organizer for the country’s export trade industry. This time around, the Philippine delegation’s repertoire of healthy and convenient food options will be front and center, echoing the call in the Gulf for more natural and nutritious food offerings. 

Related: Delight in the future of healthy and convenient eating as FOODPhilippines joins Gulfood 2024

The Philippines takes pride in its dedication in elevating the quality and capacity of local exporters to compete in the global market through overseas trade fairs. At the same time, it continues to bring more people into the fold with its own annual food events. 

The country’s culinary community will come together this coming May 10-12, 2024 as CITEM presents the 17th edition of IFEX Philippines, the country’s biggest international trade show for food and ingredients. IFEX Philippines 2024 at the World Trade Center Metro Manila is one big salu-salo to experience a food journey flavored with Philippine culture and innovation from leading food exhibitors, industry experts, and enthusiasts.

Be part of the Philippine food movement. Visit IFEXConnect to know more about IFEX Philippines 2024 and CITEM activities.

Banner image courtesy of: Vitalii Pavlyshyne on Unsplash

Reference: This story was originally posted on FOODPHILIPPINES.