We asked our buyers Roland, Carrie, and Kevin—all on the pulse of the Natural Health world in BC—to share what’s popular and up and coming for 2017. As some trends become mainstream (fermented foods), other ‘exotic’ choices may take a while (crickets, anyone?). And food politics are getting stronger: desire to cook more with local, get-to-know-your-farmer foods, more plant-based diets, and a determination to reduce food waste are the hottest trends.
Health and Beauty
The more people understand the connection between good quality food and looking fabulous, the more they demand from their supplements and beauty products.
It’s HOT
- Turmeric for inflammation, plaque in the brain, and digestive and skin conditions
- Hyaluronic acid to cushion and lubricate joints, and to keep skin supple
- Collagen in supplements and creams to strengthen hair, skin, nails, and joints
- Vitamin C in creams and supplements to repel free radicals, brighten skin, boost collagen, and aid the immune system
- Organic, toxin-free skincare
It’s NEW
- Concentrated whole food sources of vitamins and minerals—like kale in vitamin B supplements, and brown rice, cabbage, and oranges in bone-building formulas
- Powder and liquid boosters to add to shakes, juices, and smoothies
- Moringa in powder and capsules, and as tea. Rich in protein, beta-carotene, iron, vitamin C, potassium, and calcium, the leaves, flowers, and pods of this “miracle tree” are known for their anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties.
- Organic, non-GMO, fermented (probiotic) ingredients
- Elixir concentrates to add to hot or cold water, fizzy or still
- Moisturizing, anti-inflammatory castor oil as a massage oil carrier, and for supple hair and skin
Grocery
We’re noticing a real shift away from products high in sugar, and an increase in Paleo—which complements a rise in hunted-and-gathered, seasonal-and-sustainable Nordic foods.
It’s HOT
- Sprouted quinoa, seeds, nuts, whole grains, rice, and legumes in flour, bread, baked goods, and pasta for easy, high-nutrient digestion
- Fermented food like kimchi, sauerkraut, kefir, and miso—and drinks. Kombucha in unique, artisan combos like mint and algae, dragonfruit lemongrass, and smoky flavours. Look out for gut shots, apple cider vinegar/probiotic water, and tonics.
- Slow-cooked traditional goodness, in ready or homemade bone broth
- Grass-fed meat and dairy
- Raw chocolate to boost cognitive function (we’ll go with that!)
- Non-dairy ice cream
It’s NEW
- Plant waters, made of maple, birch, cactus, aloe, and honey
- Healthy mocktails of fermented tea, vegetable juices, savoury extracts, herbs, raw vinegar, and kombucha
- Sour cherries—full of antioxidants and sleep-enhancing melatonin—in juice, artisanal preserves, and pies
- Potassium- and omega-rich avocado oil for salads, in potato chips and other snack foods
- Bottled water high in minerals and electrolytes
- Vitamin A- and C-rich broccoli leaves and dandelion greens, treated like kale in salads, steams, and stir-fries
- Sweet jackfruit—high in fibre, vitamins, and minerals
- Gluten-free, Paleo-friendly sweet potato flour
- Emmer or ‘farro’: This ancient grain has sustained people in African and Middle Eastern Mediterranean for over 8,000 years. Try as flour, or as a rice or breakfast grain substitute.
- Chaga mushrooms: Grown inside birch trees, these mushrooms are alkalizing, anti-fungal, anti-bacterial, and anti-inflammatory—and super high in antioxidants. Use in broth and tea.
This article was published in The Good Life magazine.
