Feb 12, 2021
Food product safety and quality as well as the environmental footprint of the food and beverages will become Indian consumer priority as they will become picky about what they consume.
A report by researcher Mintel on global consumer trends hearsays that the pandemic has shifted focus towards brands that are packaged and considered safe to consume.
Sales of loose beverages and foods is quite common, both for staples and other kinds of food products and packaged food is a key in a market like India. Nearly half of the consumers surveyed by Mintel want assurance on the quality of the product, followed by proof of safe production (43%) and environment-friendliness (43%). Over 40% of Indians said their family or friends would influence them to try new food flavours.
And these trends will dominate choices made by consumers during purchase foods and beverages until 2026 in India and across the world.
Mintel said in its research note. “One of the major reasons pointed out by the report for the change in consumer expectations is that they are looking for approachable upscale meals for special ‘hometainment’ occasions.
Indian consumers could expect brands and retailers to launch appropriately priced products with ethical or environmental claims.
The trend is largely in line with the shift that companies have been noticing with shoppers wanting more healthy and hygienic products. This has helped several large fast-moving consumer goods companies, especially those selling packaged tea, biscuits, snacks gain market share.
Stress levels have also increased during the pandemic, prompting consumers to focus on foods and beverages that are perceived beneficial for them. Wellness will be a key theme going forward, Mintel said. Companies such as Hindustan Unilever, Dabur, Marico, and others are improving the nutritional content of their food and beverage offerings.
The Covid-19 global pandemic has made consumers recognize that well-being is a vital concern. In the coming years, consumers will be looking for more products and services that offer mental and emotional health benefits.
The report noted that the top three factors that could encourage new brand and product trial include friends or family, a well-known brand, and review on social media review. Word-of-mouth, whether online or offline, is highly influential in encouraging consumers to try new flavours. In fact, social media and e-commerce reviews are taking over traditional methods of marketing such as TV or newspaper advertisements and cookery shows.