Just like fashion changes with the season, so too do grocery store trends. With 2020 came the rise of canned goods and an abundance of non-perishables, and 2021 promises a whole new range of popular grocery products to try. Below are the foods which health experts believe will be at the top of everybody’s grocery lists next year–stock up while you can!
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Chia Seeds
Certified health and wellness coach, Lynell Ross expects to see an overload of chia seeds in shopping carts next year. She explains, “Chia seeds are packed with important nutrients such as calcium and iron. It can be difficult for some people, especially vegan and vegetarians to get enough calcium in their diet, which protects bones, and iron which is essential for blood production.” Chia seeds are a great addition to your oatmeal, smoothies or yogurt!
Ground Flax Meal
Following the holidays, Ross sees ground flax meal joining grocery lists as shoppers aim to add a health kick to their diet for a New Year’s resolution. As for why you should want it? “Flax Meal has been shown to help lower total blood cholesterol, which may reduce the risk of heart disease, and this along with a high content of Omega-3 fatty acids makes flax meal a popular food to improve health.”
Lentils
Lentils are a tried and true classic for non-meat eaters, and Ross believes they’ll grow in popularity in the coming year. She says, “Since the pandemic, I have noticed that lentils are harder to find in the grocery stores. Lentils are rich in iron, folate and are a good source of protein, while being low in calories, because they are plant based. They make them a great alternative to the saturated fat in animal proteins.” Throw your lentils into a red sauce for a vegan bolognese, or Ross recommends making a warm soup for those cold winter nights!
Frozen Fruits and Veggies
Frozen foods have also risen in popularity throughout this year, and Ross believes the trend will carry into 2020. She explains, “Stocking up on frozen fruits and vegetables means less trips to the grocery store, and provides you with a pharmacy of nutrients in your own freezer. Not only are fruits and vegetables a good source of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, but they are high in folate and vitamin C, which are critical to good health. ”
Whole Wheat Flour
Baking has become a popular hobby throughout 2020, but into the New Year, people are more concerned about crafting health conscious options. Ross says, “Whole grains help reduce chronic illness such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and certain cancers. That's why you may find it hard to buy whole wheat and other whole grain flour at your grocery store this winter. Making your own bread is a wholesome way to get fiber, and nutrients, and there's nothing like eating delicious warm, homemade bread straight out of the oven.”
Vitamin C Rich Foods
Through a broader lens, nutritionist Lisa Richards believes that vitamin C rich foods are going to be a grocery cart staple. She says, “Vitamin C is known in and outside of the health world for it’s immune support. Some of the most potent vitamin C rich foods that will make their way into consumer’s grocery carts include bell peppers, strawberries, kale, broccoli, and of course citrus fruit.” Staying healthy has never been more of a priority than now!
Antioxidant Rich Foods
On the same note, antioxidant rich foods which can also boost your health and immunity are Richards choice to become popular grocery items. She explains, “Antioxidants are plant compounds that work to rid the body of free radicals which lead to cellular damage and sickness. Some antioxidant rich foods that will likely increase in sales during the coming year include nuts, blueberries, sweet potatoes, and whole grains like brown rice and quinoa.”
While your grocery list most likely contains a collection of old staples, there’s no time like the new year to add some new ingredients into your menu! Whether it be a plant-based protein or a little extra vitamin C, be sure to stock up on these upcoming grocery favorites so you can be ahead of the trend for 2021.
