The recently unveiled Godrej Food Trends Report 2024, presented in Mumbai last month, delves into India’s rich culinary landscape through expert-led surveys. It explores a spectrum of dining trends, home cooking practices, and more. Rushina Munshaw Ghildiyal, Managing Director of Perfect Bite Consulting and the report’s curating editor, highlights a shift: “The traditional plate, once shaped by seasonality and local abundance, is now influenced by a pursuit of flavor.”
From the very roots of ingredients to the expertise in crafting superior locally sourced chocolates and bespoke cocktails, the quest for flavor knows no bounds. Food provenance will shape menus centered around top-quality ingredients, enriching both culinary and beverage offerings. This movement encompasses experiences such as farm-to-table or farm-to-bar, highlighting the utilization of hyperlocal produce and inventive methods to enhance the dining and imbibing experience.
Tanya Dubash, Executive Director & Chief Brand Officer at Godrej Industries Limited and Associate Companies, expressed, “The Godrej Food Trends Report 2024 signifies yet another milestone in our journey to ignite discussions and uncover trends within the food industry. Consumers are becoming increasingly conscious about their dietary choices, placing emphasis on mindful nutrition. This edition, centered around Provenance, celebrates India’s vibrant culinary legacy, encouraging readers to delve into the multitude of flavors and cultures that shape our nation. I am confident that readers will be intrigued by the richness and variety of insights presented in this edition, further cementing India’s stature as a global frontrunner in the domain of food and gastronomy.”
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The report also sheds light on conscientious eaters who prioritize transparency and authenticity, gravitating towards products that embody the values ingrained in their journey from farm to plate. Additionally, experts predict that 92.3% of travelers will participate in culinary site tours to enhance their journeys with genuine culinary experiences.
Celebrity Chef Ajay Chopra remarks, “India’s soft power lies in its cuisine and its remarkable diversity, as well as the strength of its history, pluralism, and continuity. It brings me joy to witness its recognition for its authenticity and unapologetic adherence to its roots. For far too long, we’ve been inundated with a simplistic portrayal of Indian cuisine confined by political borders. However, regardless of the lens through which you view it, the essence of regional cuisines will forever be shaped by the geography, agriculture, climate, and culture of their origins.”
With increasing interest in Indian-origin ingredients and a shift towards health-conscious eating habits, ghee has gained significant popularity. Anticipate a surge in innovative dishes incorporating ghee, and possibly even the introduction of ghee-infused cocktails to entice palates.
In 2024, the Godrej Foods Trends Report highlights several significant insights shaping the culinary landscape:
- Culinary Travel Experiences: Authentic cuisine will drive travel experiences, as 92.3% of travelers are expected to pursue culinary site tours for immersive encounters with genuine cuisine.
- Customized Cocktails: The bar landscape will ascend with specialized menus showcasing Indian-origin spirits, projected to surge by 82.7%, setting a higher standard for cocktail experiences.
- Artisanal Chocolates: With Indian chocolatiers highlighting the distinctive qualities of locally sourced, premium cacao beans, the popularity of artisanal chocolates is expected to soar by 94.2%, ushering in a new era of refined chocolate appreciation.
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- Mainstream K-Food: Korean cuisine is making its mark in mainstream culture, captivating food enthusiasts with its bold flavors and diverse offerings. In 2024, expect Korean restaurants showcasing concepts such as teppanyaki, robata, and ramen to gain considerable momentum.
- The revival of Ghee: Ghee, celebrated for its natural benefits, is poised for a comeback in popularity, expected to surge by 84.6%. Embraced by health-conscious millennials and flavor enthusiasts alike, its versatility and rich culinary tradition will captivate a broad spectrum of consumers.
- Spotlight on Women in Food: In 2024, attention will be directed towards the significant impact women have on molding India’s culinary scene. Whether as guardians of regional traditions, innovative food business owners, talented chefs, skilled bartenders, or master brewers, women will be acknowledged for their invaluable contributions to Indian gastronomy.
These observations illustrate the changing tastes and cultural dynamics molding the food and beverage sector in 2024, emphasizing a fusion of tradition, creativity, and culinary discovery.
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