For better or worse, 2020 was a long year. But, as we put the past behind us, we can expect some great new changes in the baking industry, going forward.
Our most important goals in this year of baked goods will consist of determining the influence of the coronavirus pandemic. But, we must also consider what will be this year’s popular flavors, what kind of occasions will have baked goods in demand and how the rise of healthy vegan baking will play out in 2021.
The Tastes of 2021
The metrics don’t lie, when it comes to how we eat, and it only makes sense with how much we’ve gone through over the last year. Customers want to indulge in their sweets, it gives the sensation of escape and enjoyment that they may have otherwise been deprived of. Baked goods that offer up unique textures and exotic flavors are even more in fashion.
Indulgence, however, doesn’t have to be synonymous with unhealthy or otherwise “heavy” desserts. Outrageous Baking has seen an uptick in popularity with our gluten free sweet bread, including our unique Vegan Chocolate Zucchini Bread. Gluten free desserts already offer their own unique ingredients, flavors and textures, but we can look forward to pioneering new concepts to steer your sweet tooth in a healthier direction over this next year.
Presentation is also still a key factor, with a younger generation seeking out new treats with a dynamic appearance that will change with the seasons. With the popularity of baking competitions and documentaries, a colorful palette and wistful shapes are no longer the stuff of kids’ birthday parties. You can anticipate visually stunning cake and pastry concepts pulling from both classic and modern influences to become in vogue this year. That isn’t to say that the tried and true cookbooks will be put to pasture, but any good recipe could benefit from unique visual flair.
The Diet of 2021
The last year may have been tumultuous, but that has had little impact on our dietary conscience. While many have expressed their desire for indulgences, just as many have said that the best treats are those that contain good and healthy ingredients.
With a plethora of superfoods on the market and plenty of whole grains, proteins and fiber to boot, we should never lower our standard when it comes to snacking. Vegan gluten and dairy free desserts are still wildly popular and provide an inclusive and delicious option for thoughtful snackers around the world.
The Packaging of 2021
If there has been one clear significant change in the consumption of baked goods over 2020, it has been the importance of packaging. Retailers have taken to upselling customer safety with limited physical contact and single use packaging, a veritable sea change from the previous decade, where packaging efficiency had become more of a priority. Going forward into 2021, you can expect that trend to continue with individually pre-wrapped goods with an assurance on safety and hygiene. In the years to come, there may be a return to form, but this will depend on the evolution of our health and healthcare worldwide.
However, advisors on clean-label packaging are optimistic. While the amount of packaging and individual use is rising, waste reducing formulas are becoming more affordable for manufacturers and can help to offer retailers a greener option in serving their consumer base. Price mitigation is the crucial factor here, to reduce the cost of nutritional food for customers whose incomes may have been negatively affected by the economic effects of the pandemic.
Another important target in food packaging will be in its sustainability. Food waste never ceases to be an issue among retailers, but there is a delicate balance involved in getting food to a customer for proper storage or refrigeration without using undesirable chemical preservatives. Fortunately, at Outrageous Baking, we only use top-quality ingredients with no preservatives, and every single loaf is made with a whole lot of love.
And customers endorse that more than ever. Purchasers want to see clear indications that their food is being made with more organic and non-GMO ingredients grown through sustainable practices, and that trend will only continue to grow in 2021.
The Future of 2021
Of course, our hearts go out to all small businesses, including those we have worked with, who have been negatively impacted by the effects of the coronavirus pandemic. Though we, here at Outrageous Baking are proud to have been able to service the community with our gluten free bakery online, we are just as lucky to have worked in the community to put our products on shelves near you.
Outrageous Baking will continue to go forward in finding what makes 2021 a great turnaround for everyone. You can always expect us to provide delicious treats right here in our online store for any time of the day, completely dairy free and gluten free. We’ll continue to pursue the most environmentally and economically sound packaging and delivery to your home or business. And, we encourage everyone to have strength and faith going forward, and to spread that good nature to your neighbors. Support yourself, support your family, support your community. We’ll be right there with you.
