During the pandemic, people are turning to food for comfort and stress relief. We’re seeing a return to nostalgic favorites and also food as a medium for experience and discovery. So what does that mean for flavor?

Sustainability has fast become a buzzword in the world of food, whether it’s interpreted as clean eating, plant-based proteins, or locally-sourced produce. But as Americans look to balance both comfort and purpose in their meal choices, what can brands do to secure a piece of the pie?

Healthy snacks and plant-based meats may have been on the up before the pandemic, but self-isolation is driving people to switch up their eating habits. Processed foods like Hamburger Helper and SpaghettiOs are increasingly popular thanks to their pantry longevity and nostalgic comfort.

From COVID-19 and BLM to election stress, 2020’s hardships have made it difficult for millions of Americans to prioritize healthy living. As more people gain weight, a survey points to the emotional toll of this, suggesting that a more sensitive approach to healthy lifestyles may be more effective.