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D’Acqua Ristorante Offers Look at 2009 Food Trend Predictions

Each year, an array of food trends tend to emerge. This New Year will be no different; food experts are already making their predictions about what will take center stage as the food trends of 2009. There’s no doubt that the current economic conditions in this country will help to shape those trends, as will the growing concern over environmental problems.

“What is taking place in the country is always an influencing factor when it comes to the way people tend to eat throughout the year,” explains Enzo Febbraro, the co-owner and executive chef of D’Acqua Ristorante. “Right now, times are tight, people are watching their money, and food choices will be based partly upon these conditions.”

Chef Enzo predicts the following food trends for the 2009 year:
· Environmental Eating: As more people learn about the environmental waste associated with plastic water bottles, they will begin to opt more and more for re-usable bottles and for filtering their own water. In addition to saving money, they’ll help the planet, as well.
· Locally Grown: Eating locally grown ingredients is a trend that is on the rise and will continue in 2009. Locally grown ingredients tend to be fresher, support people close to the consumer, and are better for the environment because there is no transporting of the products over long distances.
· Market Deals: Farmer’s markets have steadily been gaining in popularity and will continue to do so. Not only do people get many locally grown items, but they also find fresher and cheaper items.
· Seasonal Sensations: Keeping in line with choosing food that is locally grown and from farmer’s markets, consumers will opt for more seasonal items.
· Gluten-Free: Products that are made gluten- or wheat-free are continuing as a trend, as more people become aware of allergies.
· Natural Nosh: Another trend for the New Year is food that comes from natural ingredients. Many people are skipping things like high fructose corn syrup and opting for natural products.
· Tea Time: Tea has been proven as a drink many people are turning to for its antioxidant benefits. Trends in tea consumption will likely continue.
· Selective Dining: Consumers love to eat out, and 2009 will be no different. However, because of budget concerns, they are likely to be more selective about where they spend those dining dollars, opting for good-tasting food that also offers an atmosphere, so it’s more like a night out than just a quick meal.

“It will be interesting to see what happens in 2009, in terms of food,” adds Chef Enzo. “However, it seems likely that people will continue to turn to the more environmentally friendly, locally produced, and natural food options. When it comes to dining out, consumer will likely reduce the frequency, but make quality choices when they do go out.”