What We Will Be Eating And Drinking In 2022

Every year brings with it new food and drink trends. From a growing interest in sustainability to consumers turning their kitchens into cocktail bars, this year certainly has been one to remember.

But what will next year look like, in terms of the food and drink landscape? Well, Waitrose has made a few predictions in its 2021 Food and Drink Report, and here are some highlights...

Bigger and more experimental breakfasts

With hybrid working models in place and fewer of us commuting, breakfast will become more of a focal point. Sure, overnight oats are smashing, but get prepared for the likes of shakshuka, eggs benedict and more. Speaking of eggs, it turns out we've been eating them 68% more times than in the previous year.

We'll also be spreading our breakfasts out across the morning, rather than confining it to being eaten first thing. Not only that, we'll be getting more experimental when it comes to cooking our first meal of the day. Think breakfast burritos, homemade crumpets and blueberry buttermilk pancakes.

Going the extra mile to reduce your carbon footprint

According to a survey by Waitrose, nearly 70% of shoppers said that they find the carbon footprint of their food important. And it's no wonder, recent research confirms that environmental awareness amongst UK consumers has surged in the past year, with 85% of us now making more sustainable life choices.

We'll be making more of an effort to reduce the carbon footprint of our foods, whether that's by shopping local, reducing our meat intake or buying plastic-free.

Say hello to potato milk

Not oat milk, not almond milk, but potato milk. Low in sugar and saturated fat, it’s set to dominate coffee shop menus in the coming months.

Bottled cocktails are here to stay

Not only did Lockdown after Lockdown spur producers to create meal delivery kits and DIY boxes, but it's also brought a whole new meaning to the phrase Ready To Drink. Unlike your favourite tinnies, bottled cocktails are less about convenience and more about recreating your favourite cocktail at home.

A new wave of ready-to-drink will no-doubt continue to see consumers upgrade from standard spirits to premium, pre-mixed bottled cocktails.