Analysts Find Top 2012 Food Trend Will Be Allergy-Friendly Fare

A market research group based in the UK recently announced its predictions of the top food trends of 2012. Noting an aging population and growing rates of food allergies and intolerances, the Leatherhead Food Research group predicts that grocery store shelves will be increasingly filled with foods that are free of gluten, nut, or dairy ingredients and make positive health claims.

Considering the aging population in many countries, including the United States and the UK, the group predicted a rise in food products making health claims to appeal to baby boomers interested in maintaining a healthy and active lifestyle. For example, according to the New York Daily News, analysts expect to see more products containing glucosamine, for joint health, or those with added omega-3, for brain health.

According to Leatherhead, shoppers will also start to see more foods with “free-from” labels, indicating allergen-friendly ingredient lists. This trend is driven by those with food allergies or intolerances, as well as those who are voluntarily cutting out ingredients seen as potentially harmful, such as high fructose corn syrup.

You may also notice a trend towards reduced salt, fat, and sugar in existing food products. Finally, as with the past few years, there will be a growing number of products advertising their 'natural,' 'sustainable,' or 'organic' nature or their use of locally sourced ingredients.

What do you think of these predictions?