The 6 Biggest Health Food Trends in 2021

It’s no secret that 2020 was a difficult year for a lot of people. But 2021 is here now, and many people want to make it their year of health, growth, and change. Following the trends that make people healthier may be one of the best ways to do that.  Here are six of the biggest health food trends of 2021.

1. Kelp Instead of Kale

Kale was the talk of the town for a while, but now kelp giving it a run for its money. This superfood, a form of seaweed, has been popular in Asian diets for thousands of years. In American cuisine, it’s often found in sushi or used as a dried snack. Now, though, the fresh form of kelp is becoming a star in its own right. It may continue to gain ground in 2021, becoming more mainstream in many people’s diets.

2. Foods to Fight Climate Change

Protecting the planet is a goal many people have. One way they can help do that is by eating food that isn’t hard on the environment. Food production contributes to greenhouse gases, but foods with a lower carbon footprint are available. Companies that focus on sustainable foods are partnering with restaurants in the US to get more people to choose healthy, climate-friendly options. Some things that do this include avoiding meats and processed foods, eating more locally and seasonally, using CSA farm-shares and the farmer's market for local produce and choosing sustainable seafood options.

3. AI-Created Foods

It’s true. Artificial intelligence is creating foods that are similar to animal-based products but are entirely vegan. The main creation currently being lauded is a dairy protein, so ice cream lovers may soon have even more options in non-dairy frozen treats that taste identical to dairy-based choices. That’s easier on the animals and may also help those who are lactose intolerant.

4. Elevated Condiments

Bold flavors and restaurant-inspired dishes at home are becoming more common. Gone are the days of just putting salt and pepper on something. Instead, people are experimenting with spices and unique options that add creativity to their dishes. Seasonings and sauces that bring authenticity and excitement are a big part of 2021 health food requests. 

5. Microgreens

While microgreens aren’t new, people are asking for them more than ever before. These tiny shoots have between four and 40 times the nutrients of their full-sized plant counterparts, such as broccoli and carrots. They’re cute, colorful, and full of healthy value. People often buy their microgreens in stores, but they may also be grown at home, so they’re more readily available.

6. Postbiotics

We’ve all probably heard of probiotics, and even prebiotics, but what about postbiotics? These are the end products of the fermentation taking place in the gut. They may have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, as well as the potential to improve immune system health. Foods that contain probiotics also contain these postbiotic compounds but may be used more easily because they aren’t alive. We can get postbiotics through supplements and food additives. 

From protecting the planet to reducing inflammation, health food trends for 2021 offer up some exciting new ideas and twists on old favorites. What are you most looking forward to trying? 

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