We know that the big trends are the ones that really shape the food industry and impact us over the long term, but the littler trends that make up those overarching categories are interesting to watch, too. And at the moment, consumers are watching two words: "fresh" and "global".
Research into all areas of food consumption, including stores, restaurants and homes, showed that customers valued freshness over convenience and predictability/reliability. This does not mean that consumers are turning away from packaged goods, just that they are being more discerning and looking for products that can assure them of their freshness, through innovative packaging or marketing.
The "global" aspect comes into play when you look at range of foods available to consumers. Plain potato chips are not the only option. Going out for sushi, or some carnitas, is about as normal as going out for a burger and fries. This is not to mention the fact that those same burger-and-fry places have expanded their offerings with Asian and Mexican inspired dishes, helping to bring previously unfamiliar flavors into the mainstream.
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