As we say our farewells to 2023 and welcome 2024, the food industry buzzes with anticipation for the coming year’s trends.

A study found that 69% of consumers are interested in chocolate with healthy ingredients, 74% want snacks that are nutritious and energizing and 71% want chocolate that supports their mental health.

The parallel trend of delicious and better-for-you offerings allows consumers to feel like they can enjoy a guilt-free treat without sacrificing indulgent flavor.

Indulgence remains the most important purchase trigger for cake, pastry and cookies, according to a Cargill survey of 1,200 US consumers.

Due to social media health messages, manufacturers are looking for ways to offer traditional findings with a healthy twist. 

The survey builds on Barry Callebaut’s “The Future of Indulgence” Report, released earlier in the year, which found that consumers are looking for indulgences that help them “Celebrate Life,” offering unique tastes and textures for an intense experience.

In its inaugural Power of In-Store Bakery 2022 report, FMI – The Food Industry Association found that 95% of all shoppers eat in-store bakery items occasionally and 63% of consumers eat bakery products weekly.

Indulgent foods, including chocolates, confectioneries, savory snacks and ice cream, are likely to see a notable dip in retail sales as a result of inflation, according to market research firm GlobalData.