Chefs are using watermelon to substitute meat & fish in novelty dishes
Trend - Culinary experts are expanding their plant-based menu options by introducing roasted and seasoned watermelon to their recipes as a substitute for meat or tuna. With an emphasis on texture and appearance, the use of watermelon as an alternative is mostly offered for a limited-edition run or as a secret menu item, as restaurants try to capitalize on its novelty.
Insight - Consumers are delighted when they are met with creativity from the culinary industry, especially when the products are exciting and accommodating. While outlandish combinations make for an entertaining experience, many offerings in this space are invented to suit specific dietary restrictions. The diversity here does not only spike curiosity in consumers, but it also allows them to feel more included.
Insight - Consumers are delighted when they are met with creativity from the culinary industry, especially when the products are exciting and accommodating. While outlandish combinations make for an entertaining experience, many offerings in this space are invented to suit specific dietary restrictions. The diversity here does not only spike curiosity in consumers, but it also allows them to feel more included.
Workshop Question - What limited product/activation would be successful in spiking the curiosity in your consumer base?
Trend Themes
1. Plant-based Alternatives - Restaurants are using watermelon as a vegan alternative to meat and fish dishes.
2. Innovative Culinary Experiences - Culinary experts are introducing novel substitutes and plant-based ingredients to their menus to offer creative dining experiences.
3. Texture and Appearance Emphasis - By putting emphasis on the visual aspect of the dishes and the comparable texture, new products are introduced to mimic meat with inventive substitutes like watermelon.
Industry Implications
1. Food Service Industry - Plant-based and vegan options are evolving at an unprecedented rate as the food industry seeks to expand its offerings for the diverse customers and maintain its innovative edge.
2. Plant-based Meat Industry - The trend towards plant-based alternatives and substitutes to meat and animal products is driving the development of new plant-based meat alternatives for consumers.
3. Agriculture Industry - As demand for non-meat products continues to grow rapidly and consistently, the innovation of new plant-based products puts pressure on farmers and food producers to adapt to the new market trends and changing needs of consumers.
