Arun Sundararaj, Director of Culinary Operations – Food and Beverage, Taj Mahal, New Delhi, lays the F&B trends for 2024
New on the fine-dining menu in 2024
Local: Sourcing of ingredients would be prime as the guest would be inclined to know the source of the ingredient and be assured in terms of quality, carbon footprint, local and seasonal availability.
The menus would be local and change as per season with a stronger focus on the ingredient.
At our legendary and re-imagined restaurants, we believe that the freshness, quality and seasonality of ingredients is one of the most important aspects of the culinary journey. Our menus are more dynamic; we engage with local vendors for their produce. There are stringent and well-monitored quality and hygiene processes, and we focus on procurement of chemical-free products.
Sustainability: Chefs internationally are creating menus which are sustainable. The carbon footprint is now part of the information needed by the consumers. From ingredients to packaging and food waste handling, various elements of running F&B operations have been re-engineered and there is much more to be done towards sustainable operations and consumption across the culinary realm.
Foods from the 7 sisters: India, a nation of incredible flavours and diversity, is truly a treat for the senses and the palate. The beautiful region of the North-East offers so much to experiment with and imbibe. It’s still an unexplored and untapped gastronomic adventure. The ingredients and the cooking styles are fresh and unique, making this offering a trend in the years to come.
Trends in beverage
Innovation in non-alcoholic beverages: The non-alcoholic beverage sector is experiencing a wave of innovation, catering to a diverse range of consumer preferences. Beyond traditional soft drinks, the market is witnessing the rise of sophisticated and health-focused alternatives. Crafted mocktails, functional tonics, and wellness-focused elixirs are gaining popularity, offering consumers unique and novel drinking experiences. This shift is driven by a desire for non-alcoholic options that are not only refreshing but also align with health and wellness trends, providing a broader array of choices for consumers across various occasions.
Digital transformation: The digitalization of the food and beverage industry is revolutionizing the way products are marketed, distributed, and consumed. Online platforms and digital marketing play a crucial role in reaching consumers, influencing purchasing decisions, and shaping brand perceptions. E-commerce platforms, subscription services, and digitalized supply chain management are becoming integral components of the industry, providing both convenience for consumers and valuable insights for businesses. Additionally, technology is enhancing the consumer experience through augmented reality labels, personalized recommendations, and interactive campaigns.
Sustainable sipping: Sustainability has emerged as a pivotal force, steering the industry towards eco-friendly practices and ethical sourcing. Consumers, increasingly environmentally conscious, are demanding beverages with minimal environmental impact. This trend extends beyond product composition to packaging, with a surge in demand for recyclable and biodegradable materials.
Article Credit: hotelierindia