Looking Back On The Biggest Food Trends of 2021

Back in 2020, at the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, the way we looked at food had a bit of a shakeup. Suddenly everyone was into growing their own vegetables and making their own bread, until the lockdowns continued and there was a shift into drinking too much and eating comfort foods. The average weight gain in 2020 was about 16 pounds, so clearly the excesses had an impact. Takeout food was huge in 2020 because restaurants were closed for dining in, but then many restaurants closed permanently, and people started learning to cook at home. In short, it was a roller coaster, and 2021 became all about finding the “new normal.” That being the case, what were the biggest food trends of 2021?

Any time you’re looking for trends, starting with TikTok is a pretty good way to find them. During the early days of the pandemic, TikTok gave us cloud bread and whipped coffee. So, what are the TikTok food trends of 2021? We started the year with the Feta Pasta Bake, Birria Tacos, and a viral quesadilla hack, and moved on to Corn Ribs, Baked Oats, Vegetable Burger Buns, and Smashed Vegetables. Nature’s Cereal is really just fruit with coconut water that become a viral sensation, but we can get behind Pesto Eggs because they’re simple and yet elevate the egg in a unique way. Pasta Chips and the Salmon Rice Bowl were also huge on TikTok this year.

Of course, there was plenty going on that wasn’t reflected on TikTok, as well!

• Pantry meals became a thing. People started learning how to shop their own pantries and utilize previously overlooked ingredients to make delicious meals. Appliances like the Instant Pot and Air Fryer continued to rise in popularity.

• People started cooking for their own mental health. The therapeutic benefits of eating for mental wellbeing became more prominent, as people began considering how they were nourishing their minds and bodies.

• Veganism, vegetarianism, and “flexitarianism” rose in 2021. As part of the shift towards thinking more seriously about nutrition, many people opted for a plant-based diet. Those not ready to commit fully to going meatless often became “flexitarian,” making meat an occasional food instead of the centerpiece of each meal.

• Some of 2020’s trends stuck. Many people are still baking homemade bread, and takeout is still looming large.

No matter what food trends you decide to try, you’ll find what you’re looking for at NetCost Market. For over 20 years, we’ve helped our customers save time and money while offering them the world of food. We’re a local supermarket with a global reach, providing a selection of everyday food products as well as culinary delights from around the world. It’s our goal to provide authentic, high-quality food products from local farmers as well as global suppliers. When you shop with NetCost Market, you’ll find a gratifying shopping experience that even includes online grocery shopping and home delivery.