From Healthy Trends to Tasty Treats
What does healthy eating mean to you? It seems everyone has a different definition these days: plant based, carb free, low calorie ... But more and more, experts seem to agree that eating well – and being conscious of what you put (and don’t put) in your body – is all about moderation.
Want to work some healthy eating habits into your routine, but still indulge your cravings? Committed to an environment-friendly lifestyle? Or are you managing a food allergy or intolerance?
Here are just a few of the most common trends in healthy eating – and fortunately for all of us, the food world is exploding with innovation in all of these areas:
There’s no question about it: veganism – the decision to avoid ingesting or using products made from animals – is on the rise.
In January 2022, Google revealed that searches for "vegan food near me" dramatically increased in 2021 achieving "breakthrough status" – meaning it increased by 5,000 percent or more.
In 2020, plant-based dairy and meat sales were over $29 billion and projections estimate that number may reach $162 billion by 2030.
With more and more people on the hunt for better tasting plant-based foods, all eyes are watching to see just where these advances will lead, from alternative protein sources, to ever-more tasty non-dairy ice cream products.
Gluten is a protein found in certain grains, such as wheat, barley, rye, and a cross between wheat and rye called triticale.
According to the Mayo Clinic, “a gluten-free diet helps manage symptoms of celiac disease and other medical conditions associated with gluten consumption.” But eliminating gluten has also gained popularity beyond those with medical conditions, with many citing benefits ranging from weight loss to increased energy.
In a recent report by Global Market Insights Inc., the Gluten Free Food Market was estimated at $8.9 billion in 2020 and is projected to grow to more than $17 billion by 2027.
Given that kind of growth rate, it’s no surprise that the number of gluten free treats and baked goods – especially desserts – is also on the rise. Many recipes make the most of naturally gluten-free flour, such as momochiko, or glutinous rice flour (which is gluten-free, despite its name), almond flour or cassava flour.
Some are calling it “a flourless revolution” – and we’re big fans!
Portion Control and Permissible Indulgence
With obesity rates in the US rising steadily – up to almost 42% in 2020 according to the CDC – it’s no wonder so many people are looking for better ways to control overeating and manage their weight.
The biggest challenge most of us face, however, is sticking with a program …counting calories and weighing portions can be an overwhelming process. And no fun at all. Eliminating all treats and sweets can be next to impossible when we’re surrounded daily by all kinds of temptations.
With this in mind, many have chosen a more balanced approach to weight loss and healthy eating – less about total deprivation and more about identifying guilt-free indulgences; ways to satisfy a craving without overdoing it. Pre-portioned desserts, with clearly displayed calorie counts and no work required, are a popular solution.
Whether under the direction of a professional medical weight loss program or working on building healthier eating habits overall, there are countless resources online to help you choose a solution that works for you. In the meantime, choosing the right sized snack and treat is a great place to start.
Want to learn more about how Mochidoki’s frozen treats are hitting on all the healthiest snacking trends?
Our mochi is naturally gluten free, perfectly portion-controlled and we offer six vegan options. Explore all our flavor options here and treat yourself today.