Food Trend or Wallet Grab?

I think I first eluded to #FoodTrends back in December and each day I am astounded at all that is being marketed in today’s food world that becomes the talk of the town. You would think that in my profession I would be excited about people making a ‘fashion statement’ out of food, and I really am, but sometimes it could be down right frustrating when the marketers and psychologists are putting their spin to lure individuals in and well, encourage people to stop cooking at home, by buying into these daily fads. I mean, deep down, it’s pretty cool, however when you read further into the ingredients of some food items, or get the daily nutrient totals of trying something out, my eyes pop open and jaw drops to the floor by what and how much of unnecessary nutrients you’re feeding yourself with (not to mention the brain washing that some of these companies take part in).

However, if most know me, you are quite aware that I do encourage people to step out of the kitchen at least one night a week and go out to experience some great food at the unique restaurants that fill our cities. And if you feel like kicking in for a night, picking up that pizza or roasted chicken and salad to give yourself a night off in the kitchen, is perfectly O.K. to do too.

But let’s get real here with some of these food trends. With the warmer weather slowly starting to take off our layers, we tend to just get out more and cook less at home, so don’t be fooled! I thought I’d give you a little check list to help you decide whether or not your hard earned buck (or 15), is worth it to drop on one of the latest ‘food trends’:

• Were you able to read past the ‘story’ headlines? I mean, I come up with sassy titles too, but before you “buy into a product” via the headlines, read the full story to see what you’re really getting yourself into!
• Whether there is even some evidence aligned with the ‘health benefit’ of a new fad is highly unlikely. If a ‘story’ is telling you there is, read deeper and take a look at whether actual research has been completed or if it’s someone’s personal testimonial or opinion. If you happen to hear people indicating that “research shows that eating x, y, or z…” ask the person which research journal that was stated in and whether or not they have a copy of it (just keeping you prepared and on your toes here)! Evidence suggests that industries manipulate evidence, influence public and political opinion, and minimize regulation and legal liability, so keep that in mind before you feel a little swayed by a new fad or marketing gimmick.
• Is the packaging and fancy words on the front selling you? Those big words can really grab you. Don’t be fooled! Take a closer look to the fine print at the back of the package, and find out just what those “free”, “lighter”, or “low in” really mean…
• Did you skip the total ingredients? Those tiny little words at the back of a package are truly where you should send your focus to. Being aware of all of the potential ingredients that are in a food product is a mighty fine habit for you to get into!
• How simple is the food? Really? Break it down. Good food is simple. Trust me.   Anyone can make the simple things on their own too, so consider what the fad/product/meal is and ask yourself if you’ve got it in you to try it out!
• What’s the food picture saying to you? I love taking food-ography! It is exciting to make food look so darn great! But there is a lot of programming that can make it look better than it actually is… with the use of simple ingredients (and much much cheaper if you buy them yourself)! So think about what makes up that ‘avocado toast smash’ and try to recreate your own.

There is such pleasure in eating, and excitement when you get to be creative and make your own meals come together. Food can be fun to make and eat too, and I love that we have so many different cuisines to choose from and restaurants to enjoy. On the flip side, I know how frustrating it can be when people “buy into a product, diet or fad” (trust me…been there many times), and not reaping the benefits that are often “promised”.  So be consumer savvy and smart to always know what you’re getting yourself into!