Trend mapping
reveals that food trends typically pass through five stages before gaining mainstream acceptance. Not all foods will
make it through all five stages, though with increased public awareness of food trends and issues, and thanks to online
communities and resources like Slashfood, more foods are making their way from Alinea to your table.
First, the cutting edge chefs with adventurous clientele will test the waters of flavor and texture. The ingredient might only appear as a special to begin with, but once it is established, other chefs will pick it up to appear on regular menus.
Next, if the food is a hit, the phenomenon will soon make its way to magazines like Bon Appetit and other trend-watching media. A television appearance will give the food further exposure.
The third stage is where the food finds itself more readily available in upscale markets and perhaps on the menus of more midrange eating establishments.
After success in family restaurants, less food-oriented magazines will pick up the story, such as those that cater to families and mothers with small children. The food item, at this point, is no longer exotic and, though it still might be unfamiliar to some, it is much easier to find in the average market.
The fifth stage is when the food hits the shelves of convenience stores, mega-marts and fast food places. It is now fully integrated into mainstream culture.
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