Spring 2014 Food Trends - Ancient Harvest

Just like everything else, the things we eat (and how we eat them) are susceptible to trends. The year 2013 saw a rise in raw foods, seaweed and (our personal favorite) quinoa; in fact, it was even declared the International Year of Quinoa. And while 2014 is sure to have some surprises in store, it looks like this delicious and nutritious supergrain isn’t going away any time soon.According to the National Restaurant Association, this year will be a big one for environmental sustainability, healthier kids’ meals, and gluten-free cuisine –all things that we at Ancient Harvest can most certainly get behind!Recent articles on Food Navigator and HelloHealthy (the MyFitnessPal blog) appear to second these initial predictions, and also say that kale, coconut and chia seeds will continue to be popular through 2014.

What else should you be keeping an eye out for this year? Why, ancient grains! According to HelloHealthy, “Ancient grains are ‘in’ again. They’re back and nutritionally superior than many modern-day, refined grains. Some to check out this year include quinoa… and millet.”

Food Navigator says that “Despite the popularity of some low-grain diets, 32% of dietitians forecast continued fondness for ancient grains in 2014.”

As far as seasonal trends go, springtime tends to emphasize fresh produce. Strawberries, asparagus, peas, radishes, artichokes, rhubarb, fava beans – these and other colorful, fragrant spring delicacies are beginning to pop up on restaurant menus and in the produce section of your local grocery store.

The timing couldn’t be better, as Food Fanatics predicts that spring 2014 will definitely see a rise in produce-driven cuisine – and also superfoods. Now is the perfect time to whip up a fresh salad of springtime goodness, and mix in some quinoa or another ancient grain for added heartiness and nutrition.

Not just for salads, quinoa can also be blended into a smoothie of spring-y strawberries or cherries – or used as the base of a regional Mexican-flavored bowl (also among the hottest spring 2014 food trends.)

If you’re looking for some easy and tasty ways to incorporate ancient grains into your diet this season and year, be sure to visit our Ancient Harvest Pinterest page.

Also, be sure to keep in touch with us here on this blog or on social media, as we will continue to bring you more information on our new products as well as delicious recipe ideas!